Town-Crier Newspaper March 10, 2023

TOWN-CRIER

HONOR FLIGHT BUCK OFF BENEFIT

Equestrian Committee Seeks Ways To More Safely Share Trails

Wellington is planning more pathways for hikers, bikers and anyone else, but where these run beside existing horse trails, one of the village’s advisory boards wants to tug the reins for a moment with a question or two. Take a planned multi-use trail along the C-2 Canal from Greenview Shores Blvd. to Ousley Farms Road, a project that could secure money by 2025. It would run beside a horse trail already in place, Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee heard at a meeting held Wednesday, March 1. Page 3

Plans Coming Together For Unique Sports Training Academy In

Wellington

‘A Day For Autism’

Event Held At Village Park In Wellington

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Village of Wellington and the FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities came together on Sunday, Feb. 26 for “A Day for Autism: Building Bridges with Law Enforcement Picnic” at Village Park in Wellington. With activities such as face painting, lawn games, bounce houses, a petting zoo, crafts, Kona Ice, a DJ and more, there were fun activities for the entire family. Page 16

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

A $38 million project that will transform an underutilized Wellington park into a large sports training facility is speeding toward a July groundbreaking and a summer 2024 opening.

Football star Jon Bostic, a linebacker for the Washington Commanders, said this week that final plans for the facility, known as the Wellington Sports Academy, are nearing completion. He also released updated renderings and logos for the state-of-the-art facility, which includes a high-level

performance gym to be called Bostic Sports Performance.

“This will be the biggest training facility in the State of Florida, and it will be one of the biggest in the country,” Bostic said.

To be built on 17.2 acres of land currently known as Wellington Community Park, the site on South Shore Blvd. has been underutilized since being vacated by the Boys & Girls Club for a new facility in 2013.

Bostic’s group will completely transform the dilapidated site into a main building with 102,873 square feet of space, with a satel-

RPB Zoners Hear Concerns About New Starbucks At Village Center

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report

Royal Palm Beach’s Planning & Zoning Commission spent much of its Tuesday, Feb. 28 meeting discussing a planned new Starbucks location at 11710 Okeechobee Blvd., just west of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., on a vacant commercial lot near the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center and the Royal Palm Beach library.

Aside from three requests from the developer, the commissioners also heard a number of comments and concerns from the public about the project. The items before the commissioners included a landscape waiver and a site plan modification, but the most significant discussion was about a request to reduce the amount of parking to allow for a drive-through lane.

Insite Studio, on behalf of Starbucks at Village Center developer Investment Equity Group III LLC, requested a parking variance to provide 17 parking spaces at the site, where the village code requires 42 — a variance of 25 spaces.

to allow for adequate stacking for the Starbucks. It is all still connected, not creating any impediments. There is an existing turn lane [into the space] from Okeechobee Blvd. We relocated some dumpsters, but really keeping the context and connectivity across the entire property.”

Terry noted that the Village of Royal Palm Beach’s parking requirements exceed any other municipality in the area, and also does not take into account that coffee shops do not typically need the same number of spaces as a fastfood restaurant would use. He then went into details about the uses for parking by other tenants.

“For the medical office, we need 116 spaces. There was a variance approved, so the medical office is required to have 110 spaces. The financial institution on the south end is approved, but unbuilt, would require 17, and what we are proposing is... 17 spaces for the Starbucks,” Terry said. “We are not taking away any parking expectation from any other tenants in the complex.”

Record Participation

At Wellington’s March

Madness Tournament

The 21st edition of the Wellington Wolves March Madness Basketball Tournament, presented by Florida US Amateur Basketball, was truly bigger and better than ever. During the weekend of March 4-5, 120 youth travel basketball teams from Florida descended upon Wellington and other parts of Palm Beach County to play in this annual event. Page 21

rendering

Performance

lite baseball and softball complex of 9,706 square feet. There will be seven full indoor basketball courts; 13 full indoor volleyball courts; a large multi-purpose field for football, soccer and lacrosse; a full turf baseball field; and a full turf softball field.

Bostic said that architectural plans started in January and are nearing completion.

“We are going to break ground right before training camp in July,” he said. “Along the way, we will announce different groups associated with the facility. It will be up and running by Aug. 1, 2024.”

Other amenities include a membership-based weight room; a performance gym; a cheerleading gym; a café serving breakfast, lunch and dinner; a recovery center with hot tubs, cold tubs, saunas and steam rooms; an e-sports gaming lounge; and offices for physical therapy, orthopedics and chiropractic.

Conversations between Bostic’s group and the Village of Wellington have been ongoing since late 2021. He will be back before the Wellington Village Council for an update on Tuesday, March 14.

While Wellington will retain

See BOSTIC, page 4

ITID Officials Are Concerned About EMS Response Times

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

How long is too long to wait for emergency medical services?

That is the question Indian Trail Improvement District officials are asking themselves and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue representatives.

Citing January data provided by PBCFR Battalion 2 District Chief Phillip Olavarria at the ITID Board of Supervisors meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 15, ITID Vice President Betty Argue expressed concern about the 27 emergency medicals calls that showed a response time of more than 10

minutes. Two EMS responses took more than 15 minutes, according to the report.

“Seeing 11-minute and 10-minute response times is kind of surprising,” Argue said. “If someone is having a heart attack, response time is critical.” Olavarria agreed, but he noted that average emergency response times in January had improved (8:20) in comparison to December (8:53).

Argue said that any improvement is good, but that a more indepth, year-over-year comparison would be more helpful.

A review by the Town-Crier of

data supplied to supervisors for six of the last nine months shows that 513 of the 994 emergency calls (51.6 percent) received in the ITID area took more than 8 minutes for arrival on scene. PBCFR’s overall average response time is 6 minutes and 53 seconds, according to the agency’s web site.

Average response times may include non-medical emergencies, such as brush or structure fires.

The vast majority of those calls were for emergency medical services.

For instance, in May 2022, 163 of the 178 emergency calls

To provide some history on the overall site, village planners said that a previous variance was approved in 2020 to reduce the required parking space at the plaza from 149 down to 143 spaces, making the overall village code parking deficit, should the variance be approved, 31 spaces. Village staff recommended denying the parking variance. Insite Studio’s Brian Terry was on hand with data and a parking study conducted to support the request for the currently undeveloped plot of land that was originally planned to be a bank.

“I know the number 25 sounds like a large number in the context of 42 required spaces,” Terry said. “We removed some of the spaces

Brian Kelley, a professional engineer with Simmons & White, conducted a detailed parking study that addressed the customer uses for the parking, including time of day.

“Weekend is when coffee shops are busiest, but banks and medical offices are empty. We looked at time of day, with 7 to 8 a.m. peak utilization, medical is 10 to 11 a.m. Also, coffee shops experience more drive-through than dine-in, compared to typical fast food,” Kelley said. “The study is for all three businesses based on peak time, and we expect a surplus of 49 spaces on weekdays.”

However, Thomas Traino, who owns the Denny’s restaurant di-

TREE PLANTED IN MEMORY OF TOM WENHAM

in

4

to

PBSO Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort In A Time Of Need

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report

Local residents had the opportunity to meet with members of the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office Therapy Dog Unit on Sunday, Feb. 26 during the “A Day for Autism: Building Bridges with Law Enforcement Picnic” at Village Park in Wellington.

The team includes six deputies, one civilian and eight therapy dogs. PBSO handlers Roy Gonzalez and Teresa Grimaldi were joined by civilian Tania Heatherly at the Wellington event. The trio of handlers were joined by their K9 partners Charlie, Milo and Reggie, respectively. The other PBSO handlers on

the team include William Feaman with K9s Hank and Daya; Brian Cassie with K9 Bear; Charles Bahruth with K9 Lars; and Keith Russell with K9 Jasper. “We’re based off of region,” said Gonzalez, who is based out of Wellington. Grimaldi is based out of PBSO headquarters, while Bahruth is based out of the western region, Feaman and Heatherly are based out of the south region, and Cassie and Russell are based out of the north region.

The program started almost two years ago with Feaman and one dog. It has since expanded. Gonzalez joined the program last May with Charlie, who is about a year-and-a-half old now.

Most of the dogs on the team are from Big Dog Ranch Rescue, but Charlie, a husky lab mix, is from the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office.

The Brevard County office also gets their dogs from rescues, and has a Paws & Stripes College program, where the dogs get trained.

“Our training consists of obedience and environmental training,” Grimaldi said. “The dogs themselves, we pick them for their disposition and their temperaments. We can’t teach them that part, so we have to already evaluate them ahead of time and have that part down.”

Once the handlers have bonded See PBSO DOGS, page 4

The popular Buck Off Challenge fundraiser for the nonprofit Southeast Florida Honor Flight was held at the Wellington Community Center on Sunday, Feb. 26. During the family-friendly mechanical bull competition, participants were encouraged to dress the part and have fun. To earn points, each rider must remain on the bull for 20 seconds. This year, 10 teams competed. Shown above are Jesse James, Ryder Storm, Charlie James and Chloe Fiegen. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5

Members of the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Historical Society and Wellington Cares gathered on Thursday, March 2 at the Wellington Rotary Peace Park to plant a tree in memory of the late Tom Wenham. Garden Club President Maria Wolfe thought a tree in the Peace Park was fitting because Wenham was instrumental

getting the park bult, and the park is close

his home. Shown above are Sue Bierer, Diane Gutman, Marion Frank, Maria Wolfe, Mickey Smith and Don Gross by the tree. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 18

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

PBSO Therapy Dogs — Roy Gonzalez with Charlie, Teresa Grimaldi with Milo and Tania Heatherly with Reggie. PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

A

of the Bostic Sports

high-level performance gym, a key facet of the Wellington Sports Academy project.

As Wellington Adds Pathways, Equestrian Preserve Committee Seeks Ways To More Safely Share Trails

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington is planning more pathways for hikers, bikers and anyone else, but where these run beside existing horse trails, one of the village’s advisory boards wants to tug the reins for a moment with a question or two.

Take a planned multi-use trail along the C-2 Canal from Greenview Shores Blvd. to Ousley Farms Road, a project that could secure money by 2025. It would run beside a horse trail already in place, Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee heard at a meeting held Wednesday, March 1.

“Is there a fence that divides the equestrian from the multi-use, or a hedge or anything like that?”

Committee Member Dr. Rachel Eidelman asked.

“It’s not proposed now, but if that is a recommendation of the committee, that is certainly something that we would consider,” Village Engineer Jonathan Reinsvold said. “We have those in other places, which is highly appropriate for the area, and it’s a relatively inexpensive option.”

In due course, the committee voted unanimously to recommend that the village consider such an option.

Not all proposed multi-use

paths run close to horse trails, and some are merely speculative at this stage. One possibility lies south of Southern Blvd. along the village’s northern border. It could wind up being part of a plan to dig out space near the canal to hold water after storms, though a trail is not yet funded, village officials noted.

Committee Chair Jane Cleveland asked if trail riders are being asked for their feedback.

Village officials said that they want to emphasize soliciting more public input, and are testing a phone app, for example, that would allow interested users to say what they think about a given idea. With the prospective expansion

of multi-use trails and other ways to get around, Committee Vice Chair Haakon Gangnes called for a review of safety signs on roads and trails in places where horses and vehicles come into close proximity. He cited examples of signs from Ireland that rely heavily on pictures or symbols, and not exclusively on words.

Not everyone who lives in Wellington is automatically familiar with horses or taking them into account while driving, Gangnes said.

“We’ve got to do something to kind of tell motorists how they should proceed,” he said. The committee instructed staff

to present an inventory of existing signs at its next meeting in preparation for further discussion on the issue.

Not on the meeting’s agenda but still popping up in public comments was the plan known as “Wellington 3.0” proposed by Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of Wellington Equestrian Partners LLC. His group controls more than 550 acres in the village’s southern equestrian area and wants to consolidate equestrian events at one larger, improved venue and build a hotel, retail shops and additional housing. It’s an issue that has stirred intense feelings, generated fric-

tion between various players over many years and highlighted competing visions for what the village’s equestrian future should be.

More than one opponent of the “Wellington 3.0” plan spoke up at the March 1 meeting, including former Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis. He questioned why the Equestrian Preserve Committee was not meeting as often as it should. It was the group’s first meeting since October.

“Wellington is at a tipping point right now,” Margolis said.

Members said they did not always have anything on the agenda, and there was no point in wasting time when they did not.

Meal Program Adds To Wellington Programs Supporting Seniors

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report

In January, the Village of Wellington opened the doors to its new congregate meal site at the Wellington Community Center. With a nutritious and delicious breakfast and lunch available for senior citizens Monday through Friday, with the exception of federal holidays, the initiative has already shown success.

“It has been going really well,” Cultural Programs and Facilities

Manager Jenifer Brito said. “We have had really great numbers. We’re obviously looking to expand it and get even more. I think that since it is such a new program, it does take some time, but we have seen significant progression.”

Breakfast takes place from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., and eight to 20 seniors have been gathering for breakfast daily. Lunch is served from noon to 1 p.m., and about 40 seniors have been attending. Other sites, Brito said, have fewer seniors attending, and she’s encouraged with how many Wellington residents have been taking advantage of the free program so far, with room for many more.

“In offering the program, I think it’s most beneficial because it allows us to also offer more programs and activities for our senior population,” Brito said. “They can come to breakfast, then they can join us for a lunch-and-learn topic or go to yoga, and then have lunch.

For us, that’s very important that they’re able to come and spend the whole day with us and have fun, socialize, meet new friends and also have a nutritious meal.”

The program also helps seniors who have had to make the difficult choice between purchasing healthy, nutritious food and vital medicine.

“This helps them balance that more, so they’re able to get everything they need,” Brito said.

Breakfast tends to be continental, while lunch varies. March lunches include barbecue chicken and beef riblet, vegetables, fruit, salads, casseroles and more.

The primary component of the program is that the seniors come, socialize, have lunch and meet others.

“There are so many people we have seen, in the short amount of time that we’ve been doing this, who have acquired new friendships,” Brito said. “The social aspect, and the nutritious aspect, are so important.”

Registration can be done prior to mealtime, or at the senior’s convenience.

The congregate meal site is a partnership program between the Palm Beach County Division of Senior Services and Veteran Services, through a federal grant. To be eligible, seniors must meet one of the following criteria: the individual must be at least 60 years of age; the individual is under 60 years of age and is the spouse of

a person who eats at the meal site and is at least 60 years of age; the individual is under 60 years of age, is disabled, and lives in the home of a person who is at least 60 years of age and is accompanied to the meal site by the older individual; the individual resides in a housing facility with primarily people age 60-plus where congregate meals are served; or the individual volunteers at the congregate meal site during mealtime.

Interested seniors can register for the congregate meal site by visiting the Wellington Community Center, and can learn more about the program by calling (561) 753-2484.

The Area Agency on Aging is available to assist seniors who are homebound and unable to come to the Wellington Community Center. For delivered meals, call (561) 684-5885.

The Village of Wellington has also created its Senior Transportation and Rides (STAR) program that offers safe and affordable door-to-door transportation for qualifying Wellington seniors, with funding provided by the Village of Wellington and the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development.

Seniors must apply for the STAR program, and meet the following eligibility requirements: be at least 62 years of age, be a U.S. citizen or legal foreign resident, reside in Wellington and provide a copy of a valid photo ID.

The free senior congregate meal program that began in January at the Wellington Community Center serves up nutritious meals for breakfast and lunch each weekday.

There are also going to be monthly special events for senior citizens at the Wellington Community Center starting at 11:30 a.m. On March 14, there will be a St. Patrick’s Day Party; the Senior Prom is on April 2; a Cinco

de Mayo party will be on May 2; a Sock Hop will be on June 13; Red, White & You will take place on July 11; Senior Citizen’s Day will take place on Aug. 21; and a Luau Party will take place on Sept. 28.

Seniors must register for these special events. For more information about senior programs in the Village of Wellington, call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ seniors.

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Lox Council Approves Amended Design For Medical Building

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

Two weeks after requesting design changes at a planned medical office building, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council approved the project unanimously on Tuesday, Feb. 21, thanking the developer for working with them to give the new Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute building a more “country” feel.

PBOI is slated to be part of the Groves Town Center project on

ITID EMS Response Time Concerns

continued from page 1 received from ITID residents were for EMS assistance.

A closer look at the available data shows that 303 of the 513 emergency medical calls had a response time between 8 and 10 minutes; 128 took between 10 and 12 minutes; 58 between

Bostic Wellington Sports Academy

continued from page 1 ownership of the land, it will be on long-term lease to Bostic’s company. A village-backed bond issue of $33 million will fund the bulk of the project, with the rest coming from Bostic. The $33 million will be paid back by Bostic’s Wellington Sports Academy over the life of the bond.

Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel confirmed that work on the project is ongoing and that Bostic and his group have been keeping the village up to date on the project as the design moves forward. They are awaiting Bostic’s final contract for construction in order to move forward with the financing, which Quickel believes will happen sometime this summer. “It is a lot closer, and it will be happening,” she said, adding that

the north side of Southern Blvd., just east of B Road. At nearly two acres, the parcel is just north of the existing Aldi store at a site designated as Pod C of the overall project. The orthopedic practice, which has several locations across the county, plans to build a 20,200-square-foot, two-story building, which is 45.9 percent of the 44,000 square feet of approved commercial office space in the Groves Town Center project.

12 and 15 minutes, and 24 took 15 minutes or more. On May

8, a 2:28 a.m. call from King Fisher Lane had a response time of 22:27, and on Oct. 5 at 12:49 p.m., a call from 47th Place North had a 21:47 response time, according to data provided to ITID supervisors.

“This is unacceptable,” ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson said following the supervisors’ Feb. 15 meeting. “It’s certainly something I’m going to bring to the county’s attention.”

Response times in more ur-

the bond financing team is ready to go.

Bostic is very grateful for the support he has received from the village for this unique project.

“The bond helps out in a lot of ways,” he said. “It makes smart business sense. We could’ve gone to a traditional bank, but teaming up with Wellington gets us the exact site we want. We are excited about this partnership going forward.”

Bostic grew up in Wellington and is looking forward to giving back to his hometown. “This is a way that I can get involved with these kids for 365 days of the year,” he said. “I could do a camp. It would be cool to bring in players for one day out of 365 days. But I want to have an effect on these kids’ lives every day of the year.”

A graduate of Palm Beach Central High School, Bostic took his impressive football skills from Wellington to the University of Florida before being drafted into the NFL in 2013. His father, John Bostic, played for the Detroit Lions in the 1980s.

After being given two weeks to make updates, Brian Cheguis of iPlan & Design, agent for the developer, returned with a number of design changes.

“You all had some concerns,” he said. “We heard those concerns, and we worked diligently with your staff over the past two weeks. We did updates and worked on the landscaping, pedestrian facilities, the focal point and, most importantly, on the architecture.”

One change incorporates split

banized areas are faster, Olivarria noted. For instance, response times in the City of Westlake may be as little as 3 to 4 minutes.

“The farther out, the farther the distance from the station, the more dirt roads there are, will delay our response time,” he said, adding that increased traffic in the area is also a factor.

Hanson said that rapid growth in the area over the last few years is also a factor.

“The road situation out here is not going to be solved overnight,” he said. “If more stations and res-

“My father was able to give me the same blueprint his former college coach, and now one of my mentors, Larry Little, gave him,” the younger Bostic said. “Now it’s my chance to give it to the next generation.”

While Bostic is famous on the football gridiron, the Wellington Sports Academy complex will offer programs in 12 different sports: baseball, softball, volleyball, basketball, lacrosse, football, soccer, wrestling, track, cheerleading, golf and e-sports gaming.

Top coaches from each of the sports will be coming to work at the facility, he noted. That focus on a wide array of sports is crucial to the success of the facility.

“We are starting with 12 different sports right off the bat,” Bostic said. “It is not like one is going to matter more than the other.”

It’s all about helping young athletes succeed, and also finding out what other talents they may have. Not everyone is going to get a football scholarship, but there are many scholarships available in a wide array of lesser-known sports.

“Not every kid is going to be a Division I athlete. But these kids are so special in other ways,” Bostic said. “They will be able to see other sports in action, and we can advise them other sports to consider. Being able to have that guidance to truly help those kids is really special.”

Bostic believes that the Wellington Sports Academy’s clients will be fairly evenly split between male and female athletes. Girls volleyball and softball, in particular, will be huge sports for the facility, he said.

While the entire facility is the Wellington Sports Academy, Bostic Sports Performance will power all of the academies and the club sports.

“The sports academy is the whole facility. The performance gym is going to be where they train,” Bostic explained. “This is

PBSO Dogs Trained For Therapy

continued from page 1 with their dogs and confirmed they will be good therapy dogs, they go into obedience and environmental training before getting their certification.

The training, Grimaldi said, is about 300 hours, prior to going to Brevard County to get certified during a week-long national American Kennel Club law enforcement certification certificate program.

“Our training is ongoing daily after that,” she said. “We do weekly unit training, and we do quarterly training with therapy dogs throughout the state that have all been certified.”

Milo, a miniature poodle, specializes in helping elderly and child victims because of his size.

“He’s a smaller dog and can be more of a lap dog and be held,” Grimaldi said. “He will do forensic interviews, possibly for children who have been sexually assaulted. All of our dogs do depositions. He will go to trials where he will sit in the witness box with a victim

if they’re testifying against their abuser.”

All of the dogs can provide comfort during depositions and interviews, she added.

“These dogs, they were shelter dogs, and now they’re giving back to the community,” Grimaldi said. “We rescued them, we gave them a home, and now they’re rescuing and helping the community. That’s our job. Our job is to go to victims of crime, people who are experiencing crisis or traumatic events, and that’s what these dogs do.”

The therapy dogs aren’t trained for apprehension or detection, Gonzalez said, but they do get exhausted from the work they’re doing. “Dogs can take more stress than we can. When a victim or someone who is anxious or struggling is petting them, the dog is getting all of that stress,” Grimaldi said. “When our dogs go home at night, they’re pretty much done.”

The dogs go home with their handlers, go to work with them, and are with them almost 24/7.

“They really do serve a purpose, it’s not a gimmick,” Gonzalez said. “These dogs really provide a service and provide therapy

rail fencing into the project on the east side and the north side, where the pedestrian traffic comes through.

“This is a really nice pedestrian element that gives it more of a country feel,” Cheguis said.

He also noted that an orthopedic-themed sculpture will serve as a focal point for the project’s entryway.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia asked that they consider using a local artist to design the sculp-

cue units are needed, they need to do that.” PBCFR reviewed call data from the area as recently as six months ago, Olivarria said, and the volume did not support the construction of a new station. “We do look at the growth,” he said. “We try to stay with it or ahead of it when we can. But there are a lot of things to look at.”

ITID has one fire station (Station 26) in the district proper at 6085 Avocado Blvd., with two others nearby in Westlake (Station 22) and on Okeechobee Blvd. in

ture element. Cheguis said that a professional public art consultant will lead that process, but he would have no problem using a local artist.

Other changes included adding pollinator plants at the side near the water catchment pond to encourage biodiversity. They also pulled back on the use of palm trees in the project and replaced them with southern live oaks and other “country-looking” trees.

Regarding concerns with the

Loxahatchee Groves (Station 21).

“I hope you’re keeping an eye on [response times] and our residents are not suffering from not having enough services,” Argue said. “Where are we in comparison to five years ago? And where are we going to be four or five years from now?”

To his way of thinking, Hanson said, there needs to be action much sooner than later. He suggested one solution might be for PBCFR to put up some “temporary structures” for use by additional EMS units.

overall architecture of the building, the architect came up with three design options for the council to choose from.

These included changes to the roof design and decorative elements to the columns and parapets to fit better into the town’s existing architecture.

In reviewing the different design choices, the council was split between options B and C, ultimately voting unanimously to approve Option C.

“I don’t know what the answer is,” Hanson said. “It’s not so much that Indian Trail needs to dig into this, it’s the county that needs to be taking a look at it.”

During 2022, PBCFR handled a total of 152,546 calls, of which 130,276 were for medical assistance, according to the department’s web site.

PBCFR services 1,769 square land miles and 19 municipalities with 960,000 people within its jurisdiction. The department has 1,783 full-time employees. Its 2023 budget is $609 million.

for people who need it, whether it’s the victims, people who are traumatized, or first responders who show up on scene. Everybody gets a benefit from them. It’s a joy to give it to people and the community. Hopefully, the community can come out and get to meet them, and they’ll enjoy them as much as I know everybody else does.”

The therapy dogs visit career days, preschool events, senior events, PBSO community events including Conversations with a Deputy, senior facilities and libraries.

Heatherly, the civilian, and K9 Reggie go to libraries and nursing homes, as well as PBSO events. When kids who struggle with reading read to a dog, they have been shown to improve their reading skills by two levels, she noted.

She and Reggie are often seen at the libraries, where children read to him. Reggie, a goldendoodle, is two-and-a-half years old, and he has been a therapy dog since he was four months old.

“Dogs are my passion, and I love to see how they can change the moment in a person’s life when they have an encounter with them,” Heatherly said. “It is a privilege to work in this agency,

going to be more than your standard travel sports. We are helping the parents and the kids find it all in one place.” He said that being able to work with athletes on different aspects of the game is going to be huge. For example, a baseball training

where the sheriff is so involved and so pro the program.”

The unit has a variety of dogs of different sizes, as well as dogs that are allergy safe. This variety allows the unit to adapt to the needs of those they’re visiting, whether someone is afraid of large dogs, or has limited mobility and a small dog would be more helpful.

The unit’s purpose, Grimaldi said, is threefold: helping victims or people experiencing crisis, such as those who have had deaths in the family, or after a vehicle accident; community outreach; and internal peer support with PBSO employees, such as the dispatchers who are the first line when victims call in, and the crime scene team, which sees the most horrific calls.

The therapy dog unit makes efforts to go to the crime scene team and the dispatchers as often as possible, because they experience trauma just as much as anyone else, Grimaldi said.

“We’re very proud of the unit and what it has accomplished in a very short amount of time. It’s a need; it’s an unfortunate need. It’s another tool on our belt. It’s not the answer for everything, but it’s a tool that the sheriff’s office has to offer,” Grimaldi said. “We are

session might include time on the field, time in the cages and time in the weight room. “Being able to go between all three is going to benefit them,” Bostic said. “We are going to teach them the basic mechanics from a young age.” This will get the foundation set

for their high school years.

“Our goal is to get them the best chance to get a scholarship and be able to live their dream,” Bostic said. “We have the blueprint, and I want to pass it down to these kids. This is how I was able to put myself on the map.”

blessed that we have an amazing sheriff who thinks outside the box and is forward-thinking enough to bring a program like this to the county.”

When it comes time for a K9 to retire, for whatever reason, their handlers have the option to adopt them. This also holds true,

Grimaldi said, if the deputy retires.

“I would take him in a heartbeat,” Gonzalez said, as Grimaldi added, “I believe all of us will keep our dogs when they retire.”

To request a visit from the Therapy Dog Unit, call the PBSO’s non-emergency line at (561) 688-3000.

Teresa Grimaldi and Roy Gonzalez with Milo and Charlie during a recent visit to Wellington.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

An image showing the layout of the entire project.

Renderings of the Wellington Sports Academy entrance (above) and the multi-purpose field (below).

BUCK OFF EVENT RAISES MONEY FOR SOUTHEAST FLORIDA HONOR FLIGHT

The popular Buck Off Challenge fundraiser for the nonprofit Southeast Florida Honor Flight was held at the Wellington Community Center on Sunday, Feb. 26. During the family-friendly mechanical bull competition, participants were encouraged to dress the part and have fun. To earn points, each rider must remain on the bull for 20 seconds. This year, 10 teams competed. The winning teams were Laas Crown (Aaron Perrin, Larry Hough, Ronan Quickian and Shah Quareshi) in first place; the Beachin Buccaneers (Cody Abbass, Parker Mullinax, Preston Schneider and Aiden Porter) in second place; and the 10 Buck 2 Buccaneers (Daniella Russo, Olivia Johnson, Grace Lyons and Tyler Larkin) in third. Spectators enjoyed a buffet-style dinner, music and lively entertainment throughout the evening, which raised more than $50,000 for Southeast Florida Honor Flight. Learn more at www.honorflightsefl.org.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER AND JAMES WOOSTER/EQUES SOLUTIONS

Aaron Perrin, Larry Hough, Ronan Quickian, Shah Quareshi and alternate Tyler Smith of the winning Laas Crown team with event organizer Bobbi Rottman of Eques Solutions.

World War II veterans Bruno Gallerani, John Dulo, Ray Glansberg and Sydney Edson had front row seats. Team members of the Beachin Buccaneers try their hand at staying on the bull.

Myla Thomas and Isabelle Castellanos of team

Samantha Allen of the Coastal Cow Girls tries her luck on the bull.

Olivia Lennox, 9, of Wellington rides for team GCS Mother Buckers.

Eriel Dendis of team IDA Farm takes a 20second run on the bull.

Southeast Florida Honor Flight Chair Janet Hoose with 50-50 raffle winner Lucy Vandejen.

Christine Brady and Barbara Wienants of Honor Flight help to check-in riders.

Brian Lookabill sings the national anthem.

Jesse James, Ryder Storm, Charlie James and Chloe Fiegen.

Sydney Crozier, Maryanna Poe, Mya Thayer and Jnae Poe of Team Tracker Stars.

Vietnam veterans Bob Nappi, Ernie Zimmerman and Fred Quan attended the Buck Off Challenge.

Judges for the event were (L-R) Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig, Vietnam veteran Kathy Shore, Roxanne Stein and World War II veteran Carmin Yannotta.

GISELA PFERDEKAMPER HOSTS ANNUAL EQUESTRIAN ART EXHIBIT AT STUDIO

Gisela Pferdekamper’s Art Studio in Loxahatchee Groves hosted its annual equestrian art exhibit on Sunday, March 5. Local and national artists were featured in the show, which included works in a wide array of media. The show, now in its eighth year, included live music, wine and appetizers. Roughly 150 people were in attendance throughout the evening. Learn more about Pferdekamper at www.artbygisela.com.

LGLA Hosts Adopt-A-Road Cleanup Event On Okeechobee Blvd.

The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association sponsored a litter cleanup on Okeechobee Blvd. with the support of Seminole Ridge High School students and Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews on Saturday, March 4. It was no small feat to clean up litter on a very well-traveled road that bisects the community, but organizers Paul Coleman and Mary McNicholas led the LGLA team. Road traffic was slowed for the safety of the school students and community volunteers with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office having a large presence to

enact the safety plan.

The LGLA thanks the PBSO and the Palm Beach County FireRescue reserves for their patrols, along with community partners Red Barn Feed & Supply for the host area, Everglades Farm Equipment Group, Geoffrey Sluggett & Associates and Palm Beach County Engineering for all the equipment provided to coordinate the event.

Plans are to continue to accomplish this Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association beautification project for the benefit of the community and local students, who received community service hours for their effort.

Brooke USA To Present ‘Divertimentos & Dressage’ March

The Brooke USA Foundation recently announced the Palm Beach debut of Divertimentos & Dressage, presented by Lugano Diamonds, a one-of-a-kind showcase by dressage riders mastering art and competition while performing choreographed movements

with their Grand Prix horses to a live symphony orchestra. Presented in partnership with the Palm Beach Symphony, Brooke USA’s signature event will be held Thursday, March 23 in the covered arena at the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center.

‘Easter Pawty’ Set For April 1

Amber’s Animal Outreach will host its third annual “Easter Pawty” on Saturday, April 1 at Community Animal Hospital, located at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach from 2 to 5 p.m. The cost of $5 per person includes a goodie bag, printed photo, raffle ticket, and entry to all contests and egg hunts. Children three and under are admitted free. Egg hunts will be held starting at 2:30 p.m. by age group. There will also be a pet bonnet contest and raffle drawings. Learn more at www.aaodog.org.

March 15 Code Enforcement Town Hall

Palm Beach County Commis-

sioner Sara Baxter will host a Code Enforcement Town Hall in the auditorium at Seminole Ridge High School (4601 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road) on Wednesday, March 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The evening will include a discussion on any issues related to code enforcement in Palm Beach County.

Palm Tran Offers

Rider Incentive

Palm Tran is offering its best incentive to date for new and existing bus riders who use the Paradise Pass.

“Whether you love horses and symphony, or more generally, animals and music, or even a unique night out, Divertimentos & Dressage, presented by Lugano Diamonds, is an exciting masterpiece that is captivating audiences, and we are so pleased to bring the event to Palm Beach County,” said Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA.

“The Palm Beach Symphony, known for its diverse repertoire and commitment to the community, is a natural partner for us as we combine efforts to alleviate the suffering of working horses, donkeys and mules, and the people they serve in vulnerable communities across the globe.”

The evening of freestyles to a live orchestra will be performed by a group of well-known international Grand Prix riders, including Brooke USA ambassadors, National and Regional USDF Champion JJ Tate, and 12-time USEF Para-Equestrian

NEWS BRIEFS

Introduced in November 2021, Palm Tran bus riders are able to pay their fares with the Paradise Pass app or smartcard. Riders simply scan their phone screen or tap the card when boarding.

During March, anyone who loads $5 on their Paradise Pass account and uses the promo code “savings” will receive a week of free transit.

“This is a great opportunity to try out transit for the first time,” Palm Tran Executive Director Clinton B. Forbes said. “Plus, everyone will see how much easier it is to use the Paradise Pass instead of cash. You just tap and you’re on your way.

There are currently more than 19,000 Paradise Pass accounts, and there have been more than 1.25 million taps since the system was introduced. To plan a trip, and to learn more, visit www.palmtran.org.

Disaster Prep And Response Training For PBC Teens

The Palm Beach County Public Safety Department’s Division of Emergency Management recently announced that registration is open for Teen Community Emergency Response Team training for youth ages 13 to 17. The class will be hosted at the Palm Beach State College Lake Worth campus on

Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., from March 18 through April 29.

Teen CERT is funded through federal grants, so there is no cost to participants. Participants will learn skills such as basic first aid, light search and rescue, light firefighting, disaster preparedness and disaster psychology to protect themselves, their family and friends if an emergency strikes their community or school. Participants will receive community service hours for their time spent in the classroom and through subsequent involvement in CERT activities. CERT, a nationally supported, locally implemented initiative, has trained the public in basic disaster response skills since 1993. When CERT volunteers organize and perform disaster medical operations, fire safety and light search and rescue, it frees up professional responders to focus on more complex, essential and critical tasks.

To register for Teen CERT, visit https://bit.ly/3I4qKvL. For additional information or questions, contact D. Michael Jankowski at the Division of Emergency Management at (561) 712-6337 or djankows@pbcgov.org.

Sierra Club To Discuss Land Swap Proposal

The Loxahatchee Group of the Sierra Club Florida Chapter will host a two-part general meeting on

National Champion Rebecca Hart.

In addition, the performances will include London Olympic alternate and World Equestrian Games competitor Todd Flettrich, Israeli athlete Sahar Daniel Hirosh, and American competitors Jim Koford and Allison Kavey.

Divertimentos & Dressage was originally conceptualized by equestrian and flutist Sally Frick, founding chair of the Foothills Advisory Council and a member of the Brooke USA Board of Directors, and held at the Tryon International Equestrian Center. The Palm Beach debut is chaired by Margaret H. Duprey and Selma Garber.

“This is an exciting event offering the perfect combination of skill and entertainment for guests to enjoy something truly unique during the Wellington winter equestrian circuit, while doing good for horses, donkeys and mules around the world,”

Saturday, March 18, at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Pavilion, located at 10216 Lee Road in western Boynton Beach. Doors open at 10 a.m. with light refreshments, and the program will start at 11 a.m.

The program will include a public discussion on the Indian Trails Grove/Palm Beach County Agricultural Reserve land swap proposal by GL Homes. After a viewing of a video on the Agricultural Preserve from the Loxahatchee Group, there will be a discussion on how the proposal relates to local water issues.

Speakers will include Chris McVoy, a soil and wetland scientist devoting his career to supporting Everglades restoration and a Lake Worth Beach city commissioner, and Drew Martin, conservation chair of the Sierra Club Loxahatchee Group, who was elected countywide as a supervisor of the Palm Beach County Soil & Water Conservation District (2008-2016) and has served on numerous other boards.

After the land swap discussion, there will be a presentation of the annual Florida Chapter Sierra Club Awards. Loxahatchee Group recipients include: the Manatee Award to Rose Loeff, the Otter Award to Meryl Davids, the Indigo Award to Sandi Schwartz and the Pine Tree Award to Linda Smithe. For more info., visit www. sierraclub.org/florida/loxahatchee.

said Duprey, Palm Beach debut event chair, international dressage rider and recipient of the USET Foundation’s R. Bruce Duchossois Distinguished Trustee Award.

“We look forward to hosting guests from throughout Palm Beach County for an unforgettable evening of horses, music, auction items and more,” equestrian and co-chair Garber said.

23

Starting with registration at 6 p.m., guests will enjoy a pre-performance reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. At 7:30 p.m., guests will be treated to a one-hour freestyle dressage performance to classical music.

To purchase individual tickets, a table or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www. brookeusaevents.org.

The Kingdom Choir At Dolly Hand March 21

The Kingdom Choir will be performing at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center in Belle Glade on Tuesday, March 21 as part of the group’s North American headline tour that began last month.

Offering love, hope and inspiration, the Kingdom Choir recently made a timely return with their brand-new single, “Not Giving Up.”

Founded in 1994 by Karen Gibson, the “Godmother of Gospel,” the Kingdom Choir has continued to win hearts since their unforgettable performance at the 2018 royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in front of a global televised audience.

Offering a ray of hope amongst the darkness, “Not Giving Up” is instantly affecting as Wayne Ellington’s rich baritone exalts the power that comes with believing that better times are waiting ahead. While his voice alone would make for a captivating, emotional experience, the harmonies from the rest of choir take it to a whole new level with their grace, majesty and sheer expressiveness.

“Not Giving Up” was written by Alex Hart, Greg Dwight, Karen Gibson, Wilson Atie and Jonathan Owusu-Yianomah, and produced by Alex Hart and Jonathan OwusuYianomah.

“Not Giving Up” is also a reflection of the choir’s own journey. Gibson led the choir for more than two decades before their breakthrough moment in the spotlight, during which time the group — spread across London and from various Christian traditions — became renowned for their shared talents, collective spirit and instantly uplifting performances.

The Kingdom Choir’s performances have remained in global demand ever since their performance at the royal wedding, with highlights including the Invictus Games, ITV’s Concert for Ukraine, Prince Albert II of Monaco’s 2021 gala, Expo 2020 and a headline show at the Hollywood Bowl.

The Kingdom Choir ended 2022 by performing as special guests at Trevor Nelson’s Soul Christmas extravaganza at the Royal Albert Hall alongside the likes of Corinne Bailey-Rae and Andrew Roachford.

Tickets for the Kingdom Choir are $30. They can be purchased online at www.dollyhand.org, by calling (561) 993-1160 or by visiting the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center Box Office located on the Palm Beach State College Glades Campus at 1977 SW College Drive in Belle Glade.

The Kingdom Choir released the new single “Not Giving Up” in advance of

their

current North American

tour.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Joyce and Joel Cohen with art studio owner Gisela Pferdekamper (center).

Hilke Brinkmann and Barbara Steinbrenner.

Equestrian artist Joanna Quentin with some of her oil paintings.

Diane Hodges and her husband Ralph in front of one of Diane’s horse sculptures made from wood branches.

Valerie White performs during the art show.

Natalie Monrowe and Till Pferdekamper enjoy the local art show.

Debbie Mortenson, Marty Crompton and Catherine Cotter.

Jim, Marinela and Dominique Surek.

Kate Dunford and Sarah Diggin look over some of the art for sale.

(Left) Volunteers included community members and local students. (Right) A cleaning crew works along the roadway.

Brooke USA’s Divertimentos & Dressage with the Spartanburg Philharmonic at the Tryon International Equestrian Center last fall.

PHOTO BY LIZ CRAWLEY PHOTOGRAPHY.

VIP GRAND OPENING AND RIBBON CUTTING HELD AT NEW WELLINGTON BAY

Liberty Senior Living held its official VIP grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration for its new luxury senior living community, Wellington Bay, on Wednesday, Feb. 22. The event featured remarks from company leadership and area dignitaries, a sampling of Wellington Bay’s cuisine, an official ribbon-cutting and self-guided tours. A rental senior living community, Wellington Bay features luxury independent living options, including upscale apartments, garden flats and villas. Learn more at www.wellingtonbayfl.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

WELLINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY CONCLUDES ANNUAL SCAVENGER HUNT

The Wellington Historical Society concluded its second annual outdoor scavenger hunt on Saturday, Feb. 25 at the Wellington Promenade. Participants had 25 points of interest to find and photograph. They received a raffle ticket for each photo location they found for a chance to win prizes. PHOTOS BY

Wellington Historical Society board members Angie Francalancia, Allyson Samiljan, Sue Bierer, Chuck Edgar and Sara Webber.

DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

VIPs gather for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Caden Weiler, Bryce Weiler, Adalyn Weiler, Tessa Johnston, Cade Johnston,

and Village Manager Jim Barnes.

Addressing the gathering are (L-R)

Executive Director Jay Mikosch, Zom Senior Living’s Greg West and County Commissioner Sara Baxter.

Jay Webber and his son Lucas found all 25 photo locations.

Amy Yuznas with her mother Susan Basham.

Gary Clark provides entertainment on the piano.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY HOSTS HOWL AT THE MOON 5K AT RPB PARK

FIRST PITCH NIGHT WELCOMES NEW RPB BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL SEASON

The Village of Wellington is currently seeking residents and business owners to volunteer and serve on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee. By participating as a citizen volunteer on an Advisory Board and/or Committee, you will have an opportunity to become involved in the decision making process within our Village government.

Affordable Housing Advisory Committee The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee’s (AHAC) primary goal is to preserve and foster Wellington’s affordable housing stock. AHAC members provide assistance by reviewing new strategies for preserving and enhancing attainable housing, enhance existing strategies, perform Community Outreach and Feedback, and help create SHIP Procedures. The AHAC may consist of as few as eight members and a maximum of 11 members.

The general duties of the AHAC, as summarized from sec. 420.9076(4) of the Florida Statutes, are:

• Recommend monetary and non-monetary incentives for affordable housing

• Review policies and procedures, ordinances, land development regulations, and the Comprehensive Plan.

• Seek financial assistance through regulatory incentives to facilitate private sector development of affordable housing.

Membership qualifications:

*** Pursuant to Sec. 420.9076 (2), Florida Statutes, the Village is seeking applicants for the five (5) following areas:

1. Banking or mortgage banking industry related to Affordable Housing

2. Engaged in labor of home building related to Affordable Housing

3. For-profit provider of affordable housing

4. Local planning agency member per 163.3174

5. Representative of Essential Services Personnel

The AHAC must develop an AHAC Report to be reviewed by Florida Housing Finance Corporation once a year.

Interested individuals should submit an Advisory Board Application to the Village Clerk Department. Applications are available in the Village Clerk Department at Village Hall, 12300 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington, Florida 33414 and on the Village’s website at www.wellingtonfl.gov. For more information, contact Chevelle D. Addie, Village Clerk at (561) 791-4118 or Jomekeyia McNeil, Deputy Village Clerk, at (561) 791-4784.

Melody and Eric Wells of Star Dog Obedience.

First five winners: Griffin Colt, Rene Daal, Garrett Proctor, Zachary Johnson and Sammy Jabr.

Board Member Olivia Gullion, national anthem singer Kiannely Hidalgo, President Glen King, Softball Commissioner Martin McKenna and Dr. Tim McQueeney.

Mayor Fred Pinto with Baseball Commissioner Tony Candales.

Amber Nelson of Amber’s Animal Outreach with Scotch.

Mayor Fred Pinto, Vice Mayor Selena Samios, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director Mike Mikolaichik and Programs Supervisor Brandon Pendergrass.

Garry and Joann Hiebert with Nikki.

Jamie McCarroll with Vice Mayor Selena Samios.

The Siqueira family enjoys the evening.

Radcliffe Woody Brown, Nadine White Boyd and Nova Brown.

Ashley Lee of Paradise for Paws with Skye.

Volunteers Maria Saia with Zach, Shawn Mulligan with Yeager and Mike Bazoukas with Scotch from Amber’s Animal Outreach.

All Stars coach Ed Bianco, Victoria Wessman, Ella Mae Lipp, Gabbi De Los Reyes, Ella Orta, Jamie McCarroll and coach Jen Rudock.

Marisa Pence and Michelle Mitchell.

PBC SHERIFF’S FOUNDATION HONORS 15 YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation honored the recipients of its 2023 Youth Scholarship Program on Sunday, March 5 at a luncheon at the National Polo Center in Wellington. The 15 Palm Beach County high school seniors, all of whom were nominated by a sworn employee of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, will receive $2,500 scholarships for their freshman year. Each scholarship is renewable for up to four years. The 15 winners represented schools from across the county, including Lauren Farrell from Wellington High School, who will attend the University of Central Florida; Thomas Karbowski of Seminole Ridge High School, who will attend the University of Central Florida; and Morgan Rimes of Seminole Ridge High School, who will attend Palm Beach State College. Learn more about the program at www.pbcsf.org.

Starbucks Parking Variance

continued from page 1 rectly adjacent to the incoming Starbucks, disagreed.

“I own the land. I own the building,” said Traino, who purchased his property from the village in the mid-1990s. “If you see the layout, they are going to cut through my parking lot. Now, my people cannot park their cars because there is going to be a long line. If they are coming through Okeechobee Blvd., they are going to back up on Okeechobee. When I bought it, the master deed states there would be no drive-through, no gas station put in. My spaces are closer than the Starbucks spaces, so people will take those, too. I’m against the parking variance.”

Village Attorney Mitty Barnard

explained that the Royal Palm Beach Village Council modified the agreement to include cross-parking agreements and were within their power to do so. The cross-access requirement is intended to keep the entire lot connected and easy to navigate.

“I do understand the concern of the gentleman at the Denny’s, because you guys’ rush hours are going to be approximately the same time in the morning,” Commission Chair David Leland said.

“I’ve been really torn about this in looking at it. But I tell you, I have to agree with staff that I just don’t think it’s a great idea.”

Local resident Roger Livingston echoed the concerns.

“They have the photo here with the six cars in the drivethrough. But I have a Starbucks by my house that’s 15 to 20 cars deep in their drive-through,” said Livingston, who believes that the

Okeechobee entrance, while most convenient, will often be blocked.

“That’s my first concern. My second is exiting. When they come out behind Civic Center Way there, they are not going to want to turn and get back on Okeechobee from Royal Palm Beach Blvd. because it’s hard to get across. I’m worried for the safety of people and kids.”

When motions to both approve and deny the parking variance failed with a tie, the applicant was given the option of postponing the decision. But Terry said that due to contractual obligations, a decision was needed immediately.

After extensive discussion and feedback from Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien, the committee opted to approve the variance request with several special conditions. The applicant must work with village staff to reduce the variance request. This

could be done by removing outdoor seating and other changes. The final decision will be left up to the council when they hear the variance request.

The second Starbucks request was for landscape waivers to allow two islands that house dumpsters for the incoming coffee shop. The three-foot and eight-foot waivers had the support of village staff and were approved unanimously.

The final request for the site plan modification was also approved with site-specific conditions focusing on safety. If more than 10 incidents occur within a 365-day period, the drive-through will close until Starbucks addresses the issue. Incidents in the first 30 days are not included.

The applicant will also need to address any stacking issues should they begin to occur at the entrance from Okeechobee. The motion passed with an additional

Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M.

SIGNS

OF ILLNESS IN CATS

Cats are highly skilled at hiding their discomfort when they are sick. They are stoic creatures, making it challenging to determine when they are not feeling well. However, there are signs that cats exhibit when they are sick, and owners with a keen eye can spot them. Symptoms such as a sudden change in mood; no desire to play; appearing lethargic; improper litter box use; hair loss; rapid breathing; shortness of breath; and sudden changes in appetite, drinking, and eating habits are common. Some symptoms are more subtle than others, but it is essential to speak with your veterinarian at the first sign of an issue. Early detection and treatment prevent any conditions from worsening or becoming life-threatening. Because many illnesses or diseases that can affect your pet have no obvious symptoms, it’s important to keep up to date with your pet’s wellness visits. When an animal is ailing, it takes an experienced eye and professional medical training to make an accurate diagnosis and to formulate a treatment plan. If you’re a new pet owner and haven’t yet found a veterinarian, we invite you to call us here in Royal Palm Beach at COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH. Please call 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies pertaining to your pet’s health. We are conveniently located at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Where Pets Are Our Passion! OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. P.S. A sudden increase in appetite can be a sign of diabetes.

condition to address stacking if it causes issues for the Denny’s restaurant next door.

In other business:

• Applicant Michael Bahrami received approval to paint the Ponce De Leon Office Park building’s exterior. The property is located at 11337 Okeechobee Blvd.

• Extra Space Storage, located at 10200 Fox Trail Road South, received approval to update an existing monument sign and install a new wall sign.

• Meeting as the Local Planning Agency, the commissioners reviewed two ordinances designed to clarify existing village codes.

One ordinance specifically addresses sheds and identifies such structures as exceeding eight feet in height and more than 150 square feet. Some residents are using structures that were never intended to be used in residential areas.

“This was driven at the request

of Community Development Director Robert Hill, with regard to accessory structures. People are getting creative,” Barnard explained. “What is a shed versus a non-shed? What is a detached garage? Our code was not clear. Controlling the aesthetic is a little more difficult. It is to address things that are happening in the village.”

The second ordinance addresses vehicles parking in publicly owned spaces and rights-of-way. Vehicles are not allowed to park in swale areas or the rights-of-way. The code will clarify that there will be penalties for parking in publicly owned vacant lots, swales and rights-of-way, including diagonal parking. This does not impact private roads or HOA-monitored roads, such as those in gated communities. Both ordinances were approved unanimously.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Tim Gannon of the National Polo Center opened a bottle of champagne with a sword. Farley, baby Halle and Lance Ivey.

Capt. Robert and Jackie Sandt with Diane Smith.

Past scholarship recipient Tyler Reis speaks as Lance Ivey and Rick Seymour look on.

Lance Ivey, Sgt. Mario Rodriguez, Wellington High School student Lauren Farrell and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.

Sheriff Ric Bradshaw with Colonel Robert Allen.

Deputy Johnny Young, Jenna Rimes, Morgan Rimes of Seminole Ridge High School, Billy Rimes, Thomas Karbowski of Seminole Ridge High School, Darline and Frank Wienewski, and Lt. Jeffrey Swaim.

All the honorees from across the county gather for a group photo.

Sgt. Mario Rodriguez, Lauren Farrell, Lt. Jeffrey Swaim, Thomas Karbowski, Morgan Rimes and Deputy Johnny Young.

COMPLIMENTARY REAL ESTATE CONTRACT CLASS

COMPLIMENTARY REAL ESTATE CONTRACT CLASS

EYE CARE for the Entire Family

Lee Friedman, M.D.

Randy Katz, M.D.

Barry Schechter, M.D., F.A.A.O.

Jonathan Criss, M.D.

Megan Rowlands, M.D., M.P.H.

James Walsh, O.D.

SCOTT SWEIGART

SCOTT SWEIGART

SCOTT SWEIGART

Scott Sweigart, Attorney at Law, will be our guest speaker for the event.

Scott Sweigart, Attorney at Law, will be our guest speaker for the event.

FNBCC is pleased to invite you!

WEDNESDAY APRIL 1:00 - 4:00

FNBCC is pleased to invite you!

FNBCC is pleased to invite you!

• This class is complimentary.

• Receive 3 hours of CE

This class is complimentary. Receive 3 hours of CE Credit with FREC. Happy hour with light refreshments to be held immediately following the class.

This class is complimentary. Receive 3 hours of CE Credit with FREC.

Happy hour with light refreshments to be held immediately following the class.

ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE

Please RSVP to save your spot today!

ONLY 10 SPOTS AVAILABLE

Please RSVP to save your spot today!

at First National Bank Coastal Community 12140 S Shore Wellington, FL

at First National Bank Coastal 12140 Wellington,

To RSVP: Call or email FNBCC's Wellington Branch Manager, Darlene (561)231-5444 darlene.curti@fnbccfl.com

Milo and Tai Inskeep enjoy the bounce house.

Ryan Hagopian, Ian Williams, Michelle Garvey, Gloria Kelly, Jeff Goldman, Ryan Harris and Craig Lower of the Village of Wellington.

Andrew Scarpellino paints a PBSO vehicle.

The Guzman family enjoys the day.

Caroline Poyer visits the petting zoo.

Brooklyn Goldfuss and Ava Wahler help out at the Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith booth.

Trinity Peterson gets a glitter tattoo from Biba Giorgione.

Brendan Vidal and Karina Walter visit the Best Buddies booth.

Hana Halum visits with members of the PBSO Mounted Unit.

Wrigley Necaise plays in the tunnel.

August Will checks out a PBCFR truck. Noah Martinez sits on a PBSO motorcycle.

Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig, Luca Napoleone and Councilman Michael Napoleone.

Mickey Smith of sponsor Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith; Mayor Anne Gerwig; and Dr. Gordon Johnson and Barry Manning of sponsor the Wellington Community Foundation.

EQUESTRIAN-THEMED EVENT HELD AT THE WYCLIFFE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

The Wycliffe Golf & Country Club hosted its golf member/guest day on Tuesday, Feb. 28. This year’s event had the equestrian theme “Horsing Around at Wycliffe.” Before the 240 golfers teed-off, attendees were treated to breakfast and live music. The golfers also enjoyed mingling with the horses and perused equestrian items on display from Tackeria. Learn more about the golf club at www. wycliffecc.com.

Great Futures Polo Day At Grand Champions To Benefit B&G Club

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington recently announced that Great Futures Polo Day, hosted by the Ganzi Family, will return for its 10th year on April 1 at the Grand Champions Polo Club.

Wellington’s polo culture is captured at this fun-filled event with celebrity polo players, asado by the bite, a luxury car line-up, a live auction and more to support the club’s programs that empower and inspire local youth.

Celebrity polo players will include “the David Beckham of polo,” Nacho Figueres, and Nic Roldan, a model and former captain of the American Polo Team. Guests can expect to enjoy a “polo chic” afternoon at Grand Champions, with individual and VIP tickets and sponsorship opportu-

nities available for supporters. The festivities will kick off at 3:30 p.m. with a polo match between some of the best players in the sport.

“Hosting the Great Futures polo event at Grand Champions Polo Club is our way of investing in the future. The programs available to the children of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington serve them into adulthood and well beyond Wellington.

We’re excited about their bright futures,” said Melissa Ganzi, owner of the Grand Champions Polo Club.

This year’s event sponsors include Aston Martin, Land Rover Palm Beach, Olexa Celine of Sebilion Farm, the Wellington Agency and the Ganzi Family of Grand Champions.

Proceeds from the 2023 Great

Futures Polo Day benefit the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington, one of 17 Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

The local club serves more than 1,000 boys and girls from ages 6 to 18, offering programs in educational, vocational, social, recreational, health, leadership and character-building skills in a positive and safe atmosphere. By supporting Great Futures Polo Day, attendees can help ensure that youth in the community have access to these valuable programs.

“Our club provides a safe and supportive environment where youth can learn, grow and thrive. This event is an opportunity for the community to come together to support our mission and help

local youth achieve great futures,” said Jaene Miranda, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

Individual and VIP tickets for Great Futures Polo Day are on sale now and can be purchased at https://bgcpbc.org/events/2023-

great-futures-polo-day. For sponsorship information, contact Elena Corsano at ecorsano@bgcpbc.org or (646) 209-6965.

Team Wild As Heck gets ready for a day of golf and fun.

Evan Ackerly and April Milner were in attendance with their horses.

Event organizer Carol Schwartz with her sister Barbara Brenner.

Sandy Greenberg and Linda Schwab wait their turn to head out.

Lynne Finkel and Randi Strauss before heading out to the green.

Event organizers Sue Guarino and Carol Schwartz.

Rose Horne, Kelly Luck, Tammy Sucoloski and Joan Fisher before heading out on to the green.

Barbara Gonzalez warms up before tee time.

Wycliffe member Kathryn Cooperman opens the golf day with the traditional horse race calling.

Polo star Nacho Figueras at Great Futures Polo Day. Nic Roldan and Antonio Aguerre.

TREE PLANTED AT WELLINGTON’S PEACE PARK IN MEMORY OF TOM WENHAM

Valiente Spearheads Gauntlet Crusade With C.V. Whitney Cup Win

On Sunday, Feb. 26, the first leg of the Gauntlet of Polo came to an exhilarating conclusion with the C.V. Whitney Cup Final. The elite competition pitted 2022 USPA Gold Cup and U.S. Open Polo Championship winners Pilot (Curtis Pilot, Lucas Escobar, Matias Torres Zavaleta and Facundo Pieres) against four-time C.V. Whitney Cup winners Valiente (Robert “Bob” Jornayvaz, Lucas “Luckitas” Criado Jr., Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez Jr. and Adolfo Cambiaso).

Both teams hustled throughout the game to make every shot, penalty and play count, but in the end, a successful late drive from Gonzalez gave Valiente the edge, while several missed opportunities from Pilot ceded the narrow 10-9 win to their opponent.

Entering the final, both Pilot

and Valiente remained undefeated. Their paths to the title match, however, were strenuous, particularly for Pilot. Prior to the C.V. Whitney Cup, Matias “Colo” Gonzalez sustained a hand injury and was replaced by Escobar, altering the team structure right before the competition began. Escaping from Scone with the 13-12 win, Pilot also won by a single goal against Dazos 10-9 and then again one-upped Shack Attack in the semifinal 12-11 to narrowly earn a place in the final.

Valiente’s wins over La Elina and Aspen were much more decided in bracket play, but Park Place presented a formidable battle, with Valiente only outscoring them 12-10.

Cambiaso was noticeably absent in the semifinals due to a family emergency, and his nephew

Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola played in his place.

At the outset of play, Pilot’s Pieres catapulted his team to a quick start, converting two penalties and driving to goal once from the field. His efforts were met with a response from both Gonzalez and Criado, who were eager to shift momentum in Valiente’s favor. Their endeavors were rewarded with a second chukker shutout for Pilot, during which Criado scored again from the field and then twice on Penalty 2 conversions to give Valiente a 5-3 advantage.

As the third chukker began, Criado took advantage of another Penalty 2 opportunity, but a tenacious Pieres evened out the scoring with a field goal to end the half with Valiente leading 6-4.

After the break, the remainder

of the game was largely decided by penalties. Pieres scored once from the penalty line and once from the field, but those efforts were matched by Gonzalez and Cambiaso, who both scored from the line. Pieres and Criado traded penalty conversions in the fifth chukker as well, with Escobar scoring the only field goal of the chukker to keep Pilot within one goal of Valiente, 8-9.

An early Penalty 4 off of Pieres’ mallet tied the game 9-9 in the final chukker, but a dexterous goal from Gonzalez propelled Valiente back into the lead. Pilot battled fiercely throughout the entire chukker but couldn’t find their way to the goal. As time expired, Valiente firmly held the 10-9 lead to emerge with their fifth C.V. Whitney Cup victory.

Jornayvaz, who returns to high-

goal polo after several years out due to health concerns, was elated to just be able to compete again.

“The fun part is getting to play against one of your best friends in life — Curtis [Pilot]. I hope it was a fun game to watch. It was a really fun game to play in, fast and open. I can’t say enough good things about the Pilot organization,” he said.

For his impressive performance and game-winning goal, Peke Gonzalez was awarded Most Valuable Player. Carpacho, Gonzalez’s 10-year-old Argentine bay gelding, was presented Best Playing Pony honors.

For Valiente, this is just the start of their Gauntlet crusade. Equipped with the skill, teamwork and horsepower to dominate the competition, the team stands a lasting chance at capturing all three

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Members of the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Historical Society and Wellington Cares gathered on Thursday, March 2 at the Wellington Rotary Peace Park to plant a tree in memory of the late Tom Wenham. Garden Club President Maria Wolfe thought a tree in the Peace Park was fitting because Wenham was instrumental in getting the park bult, and the park is close to his home. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Maria Wolfe places the sign as Laurie Cohen, Regis Wenham, Mickey Smith, Wes Boughner and Don Gross look on.

Cares read the poem “Tree” by Joyce Kilmer. Regis Wenham sits with Herta Suess and Jeff Hmara.

Sue Bierer, Diane Gutman, Marion Frank, Maria Wolfe, Mickey Smith and Don Gross by the tree.

Mickey Smith speaks about his friend Tom Wenham.

The tree is planted in memory of the late Tom Wenham.

Wellington Garden Club members Cynthia Craig, Mary Anne Greely, Joyce Smith, Carol Ralph, President Maria Wolfe, Lizz Smith and Kathy Siena.

C.V. Whitney Cup Champions Valiente — Bob Jornayvaz, Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez, Lucas “Luckitas” Criado Jr. and Adolfo Cambiaso.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA jewels to emerge as the first Gauntlet champions since Pilot in 2019.

Record Participation At Wellington’s March Madness Tourney

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The 21st edition of the Wellington Wolves March Madness Basketball Tournament, presented by Florida US Amateur Basketball, was truly bigger and better

than ever. During the weekend of March 4-5, 120 youth travel basketball teams from Florida descended upon Wellington and other parts of Palm Beach County to play in this annual event. According to tournament direc-

tor Chris Fratalia, the 120 teams — 90 boys and 30 girls teams — was a record, eclipsing the 108 teams that played in the tournament last year. In addition to a number of teams from Palm Beach County, teams from Miami, Tampa, Or-

lando, Jacksonville, Lake City and Tallahassee came to play. Each team was guaranteed at least three games during the two-day event.

In all, 228 games were played over the two days.

To conduct a basketball tournament of this magnitude required access to a number of gyms in the area.

“We used 18 floors at 15 facilities in Wellington, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth Beach, Lantana and Palm Springs,” said Fratalia, who has been the tournament director for the last 15 March Madness events.

The main facility used was Wellington’s Village Park, which has three basketball courts. Besides Village Park, other gyms in Wellington used were Wellington High School, Palm Beach Central High School, the Boys & Girls Club and Emerald Cove Middle School.

sold concessions, collected money for tickets and accepted the final paperwork for each team competing in the tournament.

The youngest teams were the third-grade boys bracket and the oldest teams were the high school varsity girls division and the 11thgrade boys bracket. There were 22 age-group divisions overall.

The two most popular brackets were the eighth-grade boys with 17 teams and the seventh-grade boys with 14 teams. Some of more creative team names were the Untouchable Young Kings, Ballerdemics, Hoop Dynasty, Bball Masters and Out Work Who Elite.

One of the highlights of the event was the annual appearance at Village Park on Sunday, March 5 by the Miami Heat cheerleaders and Burnie, the Miami Heat’s mascot.

Wolves select team to the championship title of the boys 11th-grade Division 1 bracket. Reinhardt scored 29 points in the semifinal game and 18 points in the final. He was named the MVP of the division.

(Clockwise from top left) March Madness tournament volunteers Latori Fulton and Neleze Meadows; referees Bela Silva and Hector Roman; and the Wellington Wolves’ sixth-grade select team takes a time out while competing in the sixthgrade Division 1 bracket.

PHOTOS BY MIKE MAY/TOWN-CRIER

To have that many teams required more than 70 referees, who came from Palm Beach County, Broward County and the Treasure Coast. The game officials were coordinated by Jose Feliberty, a member of the East Coast Basketball Officials Association.

In addition to the work of Fratalia and the many game officials, the event relied upon the support of more than 150 volunteers who

On Saturday, March 4, more than 2,400 new and slightly used pairs of shoes were collected at Village Park for the charity In Jacob’s Shoes, which collects shoes for needy children across South Florida.

Of all the many great games by the hundreds of young players in the tournament, three of the standout performances were by Reggie Reinhardt, Hannah Merzius and Melissa Nieves.

Reinhardt led his Wellington

In the final of the seventh-grade girls bracket between the Wellington Wolves and the Miami Impact, Merzius converted a three-point play with less than a second in the game to give the Wolves a dramatic come-from-behind 59-58 win in the championship game. Nieves, who plays for the Miami Impact’s eighth-grade girls team, was sensational in her team’s win on Saturday, March 4 against the Jupiter Jaguars, Nieves made seven-of-eight three-point attempts and one two-point shot for 23 points. That Miami Impact team, coached by former Wellington resident and ex-Wellington Wolves player Emily May, won its division title by defeating the Wellington Wolves eighth-grade team, 59-48, in its championship final on Sunday, March 5 in a game played at Woodlands Middle School. Of the 22 competitive brackets, teams from the Wellington Wolves won five of them: the seventhgrade girls, the ninth-grade boys Division 1, the 10th-grade boys Division 1, the varsity girls and 11th-grade boys Division 1.

Acreage Flag Football League Starts Play At Newly Improved Fields

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

Saturday, March 4 was opening day for the 351 players and 30 teams that are competing this year in the Acreage Flag Football League.

The league is open to girls and boys. This year, there are five age divisions: Pee Wee (ages 4-5), Freshman (ages 6-7), JV (ages 8-10), Varsity (ages 11-13) and Pro (ages 14-19, as long as players are still attending high school).

This year, the games are being played on the recently refurbished fields at Acreage Community Park, courtesy of field improvements undertaken by the Indian Trail Improvement District.

The regular season games will be played every Saturday at Acreage Community Park and play will continue until Saturday, April 29. Then, the division

playoffs will start during the week of May 1.

According to Acreage Flag Football League Vice President Sharon Musgrave, all the players, coaches and parents had a positive experience in pursuit of first downs and touchdowns.

“Opening day was a huge success,” Musgrave said. “We had DJ Mark Goolsby announce all the teams throughout the day. Christ Fellowship was also out here for the day and gave away free food and drinks. We have heard nothing but good things from parents on our Facebook page.”

Most of the teams in the league are named after popular college football and NFL teams, but some teams were more creative and came up with different team names, such as the Rhinos.

Learn more about the league at www.acreageflagfootball.com.

WHS Boys Basketball Team Produced Another 20-Win Season

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

While the Wellington High School boys varsity basketball season came to an unexpected early conclusion with a 58-54 loss to Oak Ridge High School in the Class 7A, Region 2 quarterfinals on Feb. 10, it was still a season to be celebrated.

“We had a great season, winning 20 games with a challenging schedule,” Wellington High School’s head boys varsity basketball coach Matt Colin said. “This was our 10th year in a row of having 20 wins or more in a season. My assistants call it the decade of dominance.”

This year’s group of Wolverine cagers got off to a great start when the season started in late November. After their first 10 games, they were 9-1. Their only loss was at home on Dec. 6 when eventual Class 6A state champion William T. Dwyer High School came to play. In that game, the visiting Panthers prevailed by three, 84-81.

After the loss to Dwyer, and for the balance of the regular season,

Wellington had a series of short winning streaks that were interrupted by a close 71-70 defeat at the hands of South Dade High School on Dec. 23, a close 66-62 loss to Suncoast High School on Jan. 11 and a tough 62-47 loss to Lake Worth High School on Jan. 27.

During the holiday break, Wellington played well in two tournaments — the Rising Stars Classic and the Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s Holiday Classic — which meant playing six games in 10 days. In those six games, the Wolverines were 5-1. The biggest win was the 68-66 victory against the Jackson-Reed Tigers from Washington, D.C., on Dec. 30.

That win was in the championship game of the Holiday Classic, which Wellington won for the first time in school history.

Following the late January regular-season loss to Lake Worth, Wellington didn’t dwell on the negative. Instead, the Wolverines rebounded by closing out the regular season with a win against Olympic Heights High School and

by picking up a pair of victories in the Class 7A, District 8 postseason tournament. That set up a rematch of its earlier regular season game, two weeks prior, with Lake Worth.

In that Class 7A, District 8 tournament final on Feb. 10, Wellington came out strong and built a big halftime lead, which it was unable to maintain throughout the second half. Lake Worth mounted a comeback and ended up winning by two, 73-71.

Despite the loss, Wellington’s strong regular season record and strength of schedule earned the Wolverines the No. 6 seed in Region 2 of the FHSAA’s Class 7A state tournament. As the lower seed, Wellington took its 20-5 record north to Oak Ridge High School in Orlando to play the Pioneers, the No. 3 seed. It was another close game for Wellington, but the Wolverines lost 58-54, which concluded their season with a 20-6 record.

“Even though our last two games didn’t go the way we would’ve liked, I’m proud of this group for overcoming adversity

and still competing at a high level,” Colin said.

Late in the regular season, injuries became an issue for the Wolverines. “We lost our point guard a couple of weeks before the end of the season with an ACL tear, and one of our top reserves hurt his foot in the district tournament semifinal game and was out for the rest of the season,” Colin said. “In the district championship game, our starting forward rolled his ankle and was very limited for the rest of the game and in the regional quarterfinal against Oak Ridge.”

With all those injuries, Wellington resorted to the next-man-up mentality.

“We had other guys step up and play very well,” Colin said. “Junior Elyjah Freeman went into the starting role and emerged as a big bright spot for us. In the district tournament final game against Lake Worth, he had 15 points and 15 rebounds. In the Oak Ridge game, he had 12 points and 12 rebounds with four assists and four blocks. We’re looking forward to his development over the spring

and summer, going into next year.

Sophomore Jeremy Tovar came off the bench in the Lake Worth game to score 16 points, including two end-of-quarter buzzer beaters.

Sophomore Dakota Izard led us in scoring in the Oak Ridge game at 14 on four-of-five shooting from three-point range.” Looking ahead, Colin is optimistic about his team’s chances of another season with at least 20

wins and a deep post-season run.

“We are looking forward to next season as we return four juniors and four sophomores to the team, including starting junior Reggie Reinhardt, who averaged 13 points per game and shot 37 percent from three-point range, and our top reserve, 6-foot-4 sophomore Sean Standifer, who also made 37 percent of his three-pointers,” Colin said.

The Wellington High School team celebrates after winning the Palm Beach County Sports Commission’s Holiday Classic.

The Acreage Flag Football League is open to girls and boys in five age divisions. Games are played at Acreage Community Park. PHOTOS BY RICHARD AREYAGA JR.

TKA’s Boys Basketball Squad Headed In The Right Direction

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The King’s Academy boys varsity basketball team had a memorable season that will motivate next year’s squad to go a little deeper in the post season. It won’t be easy, since this year’s team was very talented, driven and team oriented.

Under head coach Murray Smith, the Lions were 27-2 this past season and won the school’s first boys basketball district title since 1990.

“It has been more than 30 years since this school has won a boys basketball district title, so winning a district title was one of this team’s major goals, and we did it,” Smith said. “Winning a district tournament title — Class 3A, District 8 — is a big accomplishment.”

At the beginning of the season, Smith knew that he had an athletic group of players, but it wasn’t until mid-January that he knew his team was capable of winning big games.

“Our 64-59 win against John I. Leonard High School on Jan. 13 was big because our guys knew them, and their guys knew us,” Smith recalled. “In many respects,

it was a rivalry game, and we won by five.”

Through the team’s first 13 games, TKA was averaging 84 points a game and was only giving up 51 points a game.

Another intangible aspect of this year’s team was the overall attitude of the players. “In games and during practice, our players shared the basketball, blended well together and truly played together as a team,” Smith said. “Nobody cared who got the credit.”

The Lions started their season Nov. 22 by trouncing FAU High School, 85-32. The Lions kept up their winning ways for nearly two months, eventually losing at home on Jan. 17 to Palm Beach Lakes High School, 65-47. “To be honest, we didn’t show up that night, and we didn’t play as a team,” Smith said.

It was a lesson learned for the Lions. From that moment forward, TKA won its last seven regular season games. Then, the squad started its postseason run by winning two district games, capped by the big district tournament championship victory, 76-70, over the Benjamin School on Feb. 10. That win propelled the Lions into the Florida High School Ath-

letic Association’s Class 3A state tournament. TKA was the No. 3 seed. On Feb. 16, they hosted the Santa Fe Catholic Hawks of Lakeland in a Region 2 quarterfinal. As expected, TKA won 81-70. That win vaulted them into a Region 2 semifinal against the Bell Creek Academy Panthers of Riverview on Feb. 21. It was back and forth throughout the game, but the Lions outscored Bell Creek, 66-64. That put TKA in the Region 2 final on the road at Windermere Prep, near Orlando. A win would send them to the FHSAA Class 3A Final Four, scheduled to be played at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland the following week.

After trailing by only six points at halftime, the Lions had a miserable third quarter against Windermere.

“We couldn’t make a shot, and they couldn’t miss a shot,” Smith said. “Going into the game, they looked really big on tape, and in reality, they were bigger.”

Windermere’s top four tallest players were 7-foot-0, 6-foot-6, 6-foot-5 and 6-foot-4. By comparison, the tallest player in TKA’s starting lineup was Jack Chamberlin, who is 6-foot-6 and was TKA’s leading rebounder. “Windermere

WHS Wrestlers Take Medals At States

The Wellington High School wrestling team captured six medals last weekend at the FHSAA State Championships.

Cameron Gibson (third place, 11th grade, 106 pounds) won by pin in the first round before gutting out a triple overtime win in the quarterfinals. He lost a 3-2 decision to the eventual state champion in the semifinals and then followed up with an 8-0 win and a 3-2 win in the third-place match. He placed eighth in the state last year.

Sam Gibson (third place, 11th grade, 120 pounds) followed the same path with a first-round win by pin, and then a 1-0 win in the quarterfinals. He lost a 1-0 match in the semifinals before coming back to win 5-3 and 5-4 in the third-place match. He placed sixth in the state last year.

Aurora Guadiana (fifth place, 11th grade, 130 pounds) won her first round by default and then won 14-2 in her quarterfinal match over the returning fifth-place finisher from last year. She lost her next two matches by fall before winning

her fifth-place match by fall. She placed sixth in the state last year.

Sofia Bentz (fifth place, 12th grade, 170 pounds) won her first match by fall and her second match by a 9-3 decision. She faced off with the eventual state champion in the semifinals and lost 8-0 before wrestling back to fifth place.

Mac Andrews (sixth place, ninth grade, 160 pounds) won 8-6 in the first round before winning a 2-0

overtime thriller in the quarterfinals. Battling through multiple injuries, he lost his last three matches to finish in sixth place. He was the only freshman in his weight class, which was filled with 12 seniors and three juniors.

Randy Lancaster (seventh place, 12th grade, 145 pounds), in his first trip to the state tournament, lost a tough match in the first round before winning three of his next four matches to finish in seventh place.

was taller, bigger and stronger than us,” Smith said.

Despite a rough third quarter, TKA’s players kept being aggressive.

“I’m so proud of my players for playing hard and together until the final horn,” he said. “We scored the last basket of the game. Our players never gave up.”

After four quarters of play, the Lions lost 84-68.

“What’s interesting is that the team we beat in the semifinals [Bell Creek] actually defeated Windermere Prep by one point as recently as Feb. 2,” Smith said. “But that’s what can happen in basketball.”

As Smith looks forward, he’s optimistic that next year’s squad will be as good if not better than this year’s team.

“We are always looking to improve. We return three out of our four top scorers, as well as seven out of our top 11 players,

but we lose our top rebounder, Jack Chamberlin,” Smith said.

Some of TKA’s top returning players are junior Jermaine Council, sophomore Javian Jones, junior Reggie Workman and junior James Shoenfelt. Council was the team’s leading scorer with 484 points; Jones led the team with 121 assists; Workman had 116 assists; and Shoenfelt was the team’s

second-best rebounder and made the second highest number of free throws with 82.

Smith is already mapping out the team’s summer workouts, where the goal will be to get stronger, quicker, fitter, faster and better.

“We’ll attend some team camps, do lots of individual workouts and improve our overall skills,” he said.

Wycliffe Stiffs Honor Five New Stickball Hall Of Famers

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

On Tuesday, Feb. 7, Gil Seidman, Bruce Dresner, Joel Schweidel, Phil Strassler and Howard Novick became the latest inductees into the Wycliffe Stiffs Stickball Hall of Fame.

The ceremony took place that afternoon at Wellington’s Village Park, home of the Wycliffe Stiffs Stickball League. Harry Klaff, the league’s director of operations, presided over the induction ceremony. Seidman entered the league in 2014-15 as a member of the Bronx Clippers. His best batting average was .286 during the 2016-17 season. He has a lifetime slugging percentage of .361. Dresner started playing in 201617 for the Long Island Whalers. On two occasions, he has hit .400. In the 2017-18 season, he hit .441, and in 2021-22, he hit .400.

Schweidel’s debut in the league was in 2015 while playing for the Brooklyn Bums. On three occasions, he has batted .300. His best year was 2017-18 when he batted .353 for the Long Island Whalers. From 2015 to 2022, he slugged 19 doubles. Strassler has been playing in

M•S Morris & Shields

the league since 2015-16. His first team was the Long Island Whalers. On three occasions, he batted over .400. His highest average was .429 during the 2021-22 season.

Novick’s first team in the league was the Bronx Clippers. That was in 2016 when he batted .367. On two occasions, he has batted over .400. His best year was 2021-22, when he batted .458. From 2016 to 2022, he slugged 37 doubles.

The Wycliffe Stiffs Stickball Hall of Fame was created in 2009. According to Klaff, the purpose is to recognize the accomplishments of players who have contributed their time and effort over the years to ensure the success of the league.

To be inducted, individuals must have played in at least 75 percent of their team’s games for at least six seasons. Scorekeepers and other league personnel are also eligible for induction.

On Tuesday, Feb. 14, the league hosted its first-ever Old Timers Day, where 19 players who played in the league’s first year returned for a little batting practice.

“There was no game, but they all got up for a few swings,” Klaff said, adding that they wore jerseys from the teams that played in the first year — the Flatbush Egg Creams, the Wycliffe Yankees, the Concourse City Slickers and the Coney Island Bulldogs.

Deputy Sheriff James S. Fogleman

Deputy Sheriff Anita K. Pospisil

This year’s TKA boys varsity basketball team had a 27-2 record.

(L-R) Sam Marvel, Cameron Gibson, Sofia Bentz, Aurora Guadiana, Randy Lancaster and Mac Andrews.

2023 stickball hall of famers Gil Seidman, Bruce Dresner, Joel Schweidel, Phil Strassler and Howard Novick. PHOTO BY ALAN LEBOWITZ

Canada Nabs CSIO4* Nations Cup At Wellington International

Despite being on U.S. soil, Wellington International was brimming with Canadian pride on Saturday, March 4, as the Canadian Show Jumping Team gave a dominating performance in the $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup,

presented by IDA Development. Team members Erynn Ballard, Mario Deslauriers, Tiffany Foster and Beth Underhill were led by 10time Canadian Olympian Ian Millar in his debut as chef d’équipe. In the 22-year history of the Na-

tions Cup at the Winter Equestrian Festival, Canada has stood atop the podium six times, making Saturday evening’s performance lucky number seven.

Eleven teams — Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Great Britain, Ireland, Mexico, the United States and Venezuela — competed in the opening round, and the top eight returned for round two during Saturday Night Lights. At the start of the second round, Brazil, Canada and Ireland were tied on eight faults each over a course designed by Anthony D’Ambrosio.

Warmblood gelding owned by Wishing Well Farm.

“My plan was to try and jump another clear and lock it up,” said Deslauriers, who guided Emerson through the mount’s first Nations Cup experience. “He’s jumped some bigger tracks at Spruce [Meadows] on the field, so he was very capable. I had high expectations, so it’s a huge relief. I must thank my teammates and our chef d’équipe for a great night.”

mount Hamilton produced the first clear of the second round.

“This Nations Cup almost feels like a home Nations Cup for us because it’s on North American soil, and we have so many Canadians here in the winter,” said Foster, who rode Hamilton, a 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by the Hamilton Group. “Hamilton was a little green when we got him as an eight-year-old, so it has been a process to get to know him.”

Ballard and Gakhir, a 12-yearold Dutch Warmblood owned by Esperanza Imports and Ilan Ferder, echoed Foster’s second-round clear to further her team’s lead.

“This is my third year jumping in this class, but this was the first year I felt we had a great shot,” Ballard said. “Gakhir has proved that he keeps getting better and better.”

Canada, Brazil and Ireland on the podium with Harry Knopp, owner of IDA Development, alongside Teresa and Lauren Knopp and Alex Pazzaglia. The Denis Quinlan Perpetual Memorial Trophy was presented to the chef d’équipe of the winning team, Ian Millar, by Michael Stone and Jenny Quinlan. PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

With the pressure on, Canada rose and produced three clears from Ballard, Deslauriers and Foster, giving Underhill the opportunity to sit out the round. Deslauriers finished the night fault-free aboard Emerson, an 11-year-old Belgian

Brazil’s Luiz Francisco de Azevedo, Fabio Leivas de Costa, Luciano Lossio and Eduardo Menezes settled for runner-up, while Ireland took third. The Irish squad included David Blake, Cian O’Connor, Shane Sweetnam and Max Wachman. Both teams finished on an eight-fault tally.

Leading off with winning momentum, Foster and seasoned

Underhill sat the second round out to preserve her team’s zero count, but noted their faith was high from the start. “I think we had great confidence, and we really wanted to give it a good shot for a win, especially with our new leader, Ian Millar,” said Underhill, who rode in the irons of Nikka vd Bisschop, a 10-year-old Belgianbred mare for the Rein Family.

Millar was named leader of the Canadian Show Jumping Team in early February and spoke about his first stab at team selections.

“I work with a committee, and we looked at the declared athletes together. Within a couple of minutes, it was unanimous. It’s a great group of riders; I’ve ridden with all of them, and I know how good they are,” he said. “It was a great pleasure to be the chef d’équipe tonight.”

Wellington Roller Hockey Association Highlights From Week #18 Games

The Wellington Roller Hockey Association continued its season at Village Park on Sunday, March 5. Below are capsule summaries of Week 18 games.

Juniors Championship: Junior Panthers 12, Junior Bruins 6 —

The Bruins jumped out to an early 4-0 first period lead on a pair of goals each by Luc Hanchuk and

STUDENTS COMPETE IN CALIFORNIA

GENBU-KAI

Philip Harris and Taylor Matthews, students of Genbu-Kai Florida, recently traveled to California to compete in the 53rd annual International Goodwill Karate-Do Championships. Competition was in karate, kobudo (Okinawan weapons) and batto-do (Japanese sword). Divisions were in kata (forms), kumite (sparring) and tameshigiri (cutting with the sword). Harris placed first in both batto kata and cutting. Matthews placed third in batto kata and second in batto cutting. While there, Harris tested for his sho-dan (first degree black belt) in batto. Both are active in karate, kobudo and batto at the Wellington school. Shown above are Philip Harris, Sensei Keith Moore and Taylor Matthews.

Matthew Taylor. The Panthers chipped away with two goals late in the first, trailing 4-2 going into the second period. A four-goal second period for the Panthers put them up 6-5. The Panthers closed out the game in the third, outscoring the Bruins 6-1, to win the Juniors Championship 12-6. Timothy Holmes of the Panthers led all scorers with seven goals and two assists. Additional Panthers scoring came from Richard Jones (two goals and one assist), Danil Anzalone (two goals), Ryan’s Warszycki (two assists) and Alec Hirsch (one goal). Luc Hanchuk of the Bruins finished with four goals and one assist. Blake Stephan made 23 saves in victory for the Panthers, while Ava Taylor made 25 saves

against a barrage of 37 shots for the Bruins.

Prep Stars 8, Prep Rangers 1 — The Prep Rangers scored early in the first period on a Jameson Quintus goal to take a 1-0 lead. The Stars stormed back to tie late in the first and added four goals in the second to lead 5-1 after two periods. The Stars added three goals in the third to defeat the Rangers 8-1. Ava Taylor led all scorers with one goal and three assists for the Stars. Additional Stars scoring came from Cooper Mathwig (three goals), Amanda Warszycki (two goals), Jordan Candela (one goal) and Johnny Peglow (one goal). Rangers goalie Justin Spina was heroic in defeat, saving 28 against a 36-shot barrage. Hayden Mathwig

earned the victory for the Stars.

Prep Panthers 7, Prep Stars 1 — The Prep Panthers jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the first period and never looked back, en route to a 7-1 victory over the Stars. The Panthers were led by Drew Cohen’s Hat Trick (three goals) and scoring from Ryan Youngelson (two goals), Blake Cohen (two

assists), Christopher Akner (one goal) and AJ Orlando (one goal). Ava Taylor got the lone goal for the Stars. Panthers goalie Blake Stephan turned away 17 shots for the victory, while Hayden Mathwig of the Stars stood tall while making 12 saves. Learn more about the league at www.wellingtonrollerhockey.com.

Camp Lingua is a unique, bilingual summer camp where children enjoy an enriching, fun experience while developing language and critical thinking skills in a nature-based environment. The camp’s all-new Palm Beach County location is home to an action-packed, equestrian-themed camp and offers day and sleepaway experiences. Geared toward those 5 to 15 years old, it includes horseback riding, indoor and outdoor camp activities, arts and crafts, hoe-downs, waterfront fun, sports, archery, ropes, barn care and much more. For more information, and to register, visit www.camplingua.com.

Science and tech camps are back in session this summer! Summer at the Cox Science Center is made for marine biology, astronomy, dinosaurs and more. Join in the upcoming summer camps for young scientists and engineers ages 5 to 12. Camp days are packed with engaging lessons, labs, crafts and outdoor activities led by expert science educators. For additional information, visit www. coxsciencecenter.org/camps.

For those exotic animal lovers interested in an exciting summer program, Wellington Conservation Center is now taking reservations for children ages 8 to 14 for the summer months. This camp is an all-access pass to animal fun for the summer! Become a junior zookeeper, learn about conservation or even just focus on some of the animals at the farm. There are three unique programs, with each week full of hands-on learning experiences sure to excite the interest of kids of all ages. Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with before and after care available. The cost is $300 per week per child. To register, call Cole at (203) 206-9932. Learn more at www.wellingtonconservationcenter.org.

LMC’s summer camp programs are interactive, educational and stimulating. Geared towards children ages 6 -13 and includes fun activities such as snorkeling, fishing and scientific projects.

• Camps start on June 5th and hours are:

Monday - Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

• Late pickup is available for an extra fee

• Three unique experiences to choose from

• Multi-week and sibling discounts available

Located in Loggerhead Park

14200 U.S. Highway One

Juno Beach, Florida 33408

Questions?

Email: reservations@marinelife.org

Panthers Win Juniors Championship — (Front row) Alec Hirsch, Blake Stephan (goalie) and David Drewry; and (back row) coach Joe Gonzalez, Ryan Warszycki, Timothy Holmes, Richard Jones, Danil Anzalone and Eli Modlin.

Cooper Mathwig of the Prep Stars drives the net with Andrew Akner of the Rangers defending.

Wellington’s Julianna Bramble Wins Award From Palm Beach Symphony

In front of a sold-out audience at its 21st annual gala, the Palm Beach Symphony introduced three local students as the Lisa Bruna B-Major Award honorees. As honorees, the students receive upper-level instruments suitable for college auditions and to launch their careers.

Julianna Bramble, from Wellington, was honored as the first-place winner and performed before the delighted gala audience on a viola and the new bow she received as her prize. The bow is by Vladimir Radosaveljevic Bows and features ebony from Gabon, Africa, and wood from Pernambuco, Brazil.

Bramble, who is 18, is currently studying with Teng Li at the Colburn Music Academy in Los Angeles and attended the Eastern Music Festival 2019, Heifetz International Music Institute 2020 and 2021, and Meadowmount School of Music 2022.

Other recognitions include winning first place at the 2021 Festival of the Arts Boca Music Competition and receiving honorable

mention in the 2021 Alhambra Concerto Competition. In addition, she was selected to participate in the New World Symphony Sideby-Side Orchestra 2020 and 2021 and the Florida Allstate Orchestra from 2018 to 2021. She also performed at the New World Center in the Viola Visions Festival.

Bobbi Zimmelman, a senior at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts who resides in Boynton Beach, received a clarinet as the second-place winner. Makens Joseph, a resident of West Palm Beach and is also a senior at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, received a tuba as the third-place winner. Palm Beach Symphony CEO David McClymont made the announcement saying, “Of course, every musician starts somewhere, and with your help, the Palm Beach Symphony helps nurture and develop young musicians from first grade through young adulthood. One of our most impactful programs is the Lisa Bruna B-Major Award.”

Through a yearly audition process, the symphony awards the Lisa Bruna B-Major Award to one to three high school seniors in Palm Beach County who are planning to pursue a degree program. Winners work closely with the symphony to identify, test and select the ideal advanced-level instrument.

Riders Jump To Support The Kevin Babington Foundation

The equestrian community gathered for a day of show jumping competition Tuesday, Feb. 21, followed by an elegant evening reception to share their love and support the Kevin Babington Foundation hosted at Victoria McCullogh’s breathtaking Wellington property.

Jeff Papows, a longtime friend and occasional student of Kevin Babington, has devoted much of his time and energy over the past few years to help show jumpers suffering from spinal cord injuries.

“I’d do anything for Kevin. He is beloved and has done so much before his fall — it’s just because of the way he is,” Papows said. “The courage, tenacity, kindness and patience he has shown post his fall is nothing less than super human.”

The Kevin Babington Foundation was founded in 2019 to provide funding and support for show jumping athletes who sustain spinal cord injuries. In addition to providing financial assistance, the foundation strives to educate riders, trainers and show organiz-

ers about the most current safety measures designed to reduce the risk of serious injuries that can occur while riding.

Riders had the opportunity to compete on Mida Farm’s picturesque grass field over a 12-jump course of exceptionally built fences donated by Dalman Jump Co. If horse-and-rider combinations went clear and within the time allowed of 78 seconds in the first round, they were invited to compete over an eight-fence jump-off course. Spectators saw a total of 45 horseand-rider combinations and five double-clear rounds throughout the afternoon. Jordan Coyle and Elan Farm’s Lisaniska Cool Quality put their speed to the test to win the tri-color ribbon and crystal trophy.

After a long day of competition, riders and spectators were welcomed back to McCullogh’s estate for a celebration. Papows and McCullough took the stage to thank all who came to support the cause. Babington also gave a heartfelt thank you to all those who have been by his side and have supported him along the way.

Polo Hall Of Fame Gala Celebrates Stars Of The Sport, Past And Present

It was an emotional evening for more than 250 distinguished guests who gathered to celebrate the sport’s heroes past and present at the 34th annual Museum of Polo Hall of Fame Awards Dinner and Induction Gala on Friday, Feb. 17. One of the premier events of the high-goal polo season in Florida, the black-tie gala shines a spotlight on the stars of the sport.

Highlighting the event was the induction of former 8-goaler Jeff Hall, a 10-time winner of the Silver Cup and one of the most accomplished U.S. players in recent history. Aided by cheers, whistles and a standing ovation, Hall walked to the podium and spoke about his early years in the sport and the unfailing support of his family, especially his father. Hall, 43, is the youngest Hall of Famer ever inducted and received another standing ovation after his speech.

The most poignant moment

occurred when Tom Hughes’ grandson, Cole Salgado, accepted the posthumous Iglehart Award for his grandfather. He talked about how he learned about his grandfather and his well-known penchant for storytelling. The 17-year-old choked up several times while talking about his late mother, who passed away on Dec. 8, 2022, and how much she would have enjoyed the festivities.

Other 2023 honorees were Alexander Haagen III (Iglehart Award), Aiden Roark (Hall of Fame), and Horses to Remember Hale Bopp, owned by Hall of Famer Adam Snow, and None So Pretty, owned by Hall of Famer Stephen “Laddie” Sanford.

The historic night was made possible by the generosity of the event’s sponsors, including Grand Gala Dinner Sponsors Marc and Melissa Ganzi and Grand Champions Polo Club. Additional sponsorship support was provided

“I would like to thank Victoria so much for opening her farm and house for such an amazing day, showing everyone what show jumping is meant to be. Last year was very special, [and] this is better still,” Babington said. Mark your calendars for another entertaining evening benefiting the Kevin Babington Foundation when “Kevin’s Queens” returns to Wellington on March 26.

Know an aspiring scientist? Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Junior Marine Biologist Summer Camp gives children ages 6 to 13 the amazing opportunity to explore Florida’s coastal ecosystems, enjoy hands-on science activities and so much more. Campers will also learn about fun ways to protect the oceans. Sessions include Sea Turtle Savers, Ocean Adventures and Conservation Kids. Camps run Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Late pickup at 5 p.m. is available for an additional fee. For more information, and to register, visit www. marinelife.org/camp.

Western Academy Charter School will host a summer camp for grades K through 8. Kindergartners must be five years old by the first day of camp on June 5. Campers from other schools are welcome. There are three field trips per week, plus two campus activity days. The camp fee includes breakfast, lunch and snacks each day, plus transportation and admission to field trips. Call (561) 792-4123 or (561) 795-2186 for more information.

by Olexa Celine and the Robert I. Goldman Foundation, Ambassador Glen Holden and U.S. Polo Assn.

Upon arrival, guests enjoyed an hour of cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres that kicked off the festivities with beverages provided courtesy of Wine and Spirits sponsors Robert S. Lipman, Margaret Lipman Orthwein, Lipman Brothers, Brown-Forman, Bacardi USA, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Old Hickory Bourbon, Harken Chardonnay, Rabble Wine Co. and Korbel Champagne.

Guests took home beautiful gift books featuring artwork by Melinda Brewer, whose horse portraits hang in the museum’s Horses to Remember Exhibit. The gift books were sponsored by the Iconica Foundation and Steve Cox. Special thanks also to Alex Pacheco, Krystal Zaskey Photography and Chukker TV for their hard work and contributions.

Dylan Anderson Named To Luther College Dean’s List

Dylan Anderson, a senior at Luther College in Iowa from Royal Palm Beach, has been named to the 2022 fall semester Dean’s List.

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale and must complete at least 12 credit hours with 10 hours

of conventional grades. At Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, students explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society.

Natalia Lopez On The Dean’s List At Pace University

Natalia Lopez of Wellington was among 2,037 students who made the Dean’s List at Pace University’s Dyson College of Arts & Sciences.

Lopez has earned third honors

for the fall 2022 semester. She is a sophomore majoring in criminal justice. Pace University is known for an outcome-oriented environment that prepares students to succeed

in a wide range of professions. Pace has facilities in downtown and midtown New York City and in Westchester County, New York. Learn more at www.pace. edu/dyson.

Polo Hall of Fame inductee Jeff Hall. Cole Salgado, accepting for his grandfather, Tom Hughes.

Iglehart Award winner Alexander Haagen III and his wife Betty. PHOTOS BY KRYSTAL ZASKEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Victoria McCullough, Kevin Babington and Jeff Papows.

Makens Joseph, Julianna Bramble and Bobbi Zimmelman. PHOTO BY CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY

WHS STUDENTS SUPPORT YOUNG PWH PATIENTS

PIERCE HAMMOCK UNITY

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Wellington High School’s Student Government Association student leaders filled the halls of the HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Pediatric Unit and Pediatric Emergency Room as they delivered Valentine’s Day baskets filled with treats and things to do, along with handwritten cards to the young patients. The first rule at Wellington High School is “Love One Another,” and these Wolverines did just that, bringing lots of smiles to the young patients.

CRESTWOOD WINS PAPER CHALLENGE

Congratulations to Crestwood Middle School for winning the school district’s middle school PAPER Challenge. PAPER is a holistic, theory-based framework designed to make every tutoring session successful by making thinking visible. Students can connect with the platform 24/7. Crestwood had the highest usage out of four identified middle schools to compete in the challenge, winning $750 for a staff lunch. In addition, one of the school’s seventh grade language arts teachers, Clarissa Romero, was the district’s winner for the teacher with the most usage, and three students were winners in the student challenge.

‘The SpongeBob Musical’ On Stage At Palm Beach Central High School

Palm Beach Central High School will perform The SpongeBob Musical from Thursday, March 9 through Saturday, March 11. Tickets are available at pbctix. booktix.com.

Plunge into this stunning, all-singing, all dancing, dynamic stage show. When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world.

The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series created by Stephen Hillenburg and features a book by Kyle Jarrow, with original songs by an array of artists.

Additional Lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional

music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau.

The local PBCHS production is directed by Gail K. Marshall with musical direction by Scott Houchins. Choreography is by Angela Morando-Taylor, Abril and Kyle Laing.

Lighting design by Jayson Tomasheski with JBT Theatrical Design, with set design by Gail K. Marshall and set construction by Terry Cook, Wesley Gammons, Adam Marshall, Jason Marshall and Philip Santa Maria.

The stage manager is S’Nia Tribble with assistant stage managers Valerie Chandler, Lexy Diaz and Isabella Hernandez-Diaz. For more information, call the box office at (561) 304-1035.

Pierce Hammock Elementary School recently participated in a month-long theme of “Unity within our CommUNITY.” Students and staff culminated with a unity rainbow on Friday, Feb. 24 to show that each person contributes to the school’s beautiful rainbow, symbolizing that the school family cherishes cultures, nurtures all abilities, accepts every difference and that together, everyone is more alike than different.

WES SUPER BOWL EXPERIMENT

The third-grade students in the classes of Devon Straub

American Heritage Leads Florida In Presidential Scholar Candidates

American Heritage Schools recently announced that 23 students from the Class of 2023 — 16 from the Broward campus and seven from the Palm Beach campus — have been nominated for the Presidential Scholars award.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars program is the nation’s most prestigious recognition for distinguished graduating high school seniors. The two campuses of American Heritage Schools account for 11 percent of all Presidential Scholar candidates in the state. The Palm Beach campus is the No. 1 school in Palm Beach County and the No. 2 private school in Florida with the highest number of Presidential

Scholar candidates, right behind American Heritage’s Broward campus.

“Being a Presidential Scholar is one of the highest academic honors a student can achieve, and we couldn’t be more proud of our students who have achieved this incredible honor,” said Dr. Doug Laurie, president of American Heritage Schools.

The United States Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional tal-

ent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

Approximately 650 candidates will be named semifinalists and forwarded to the commission for further review. In April, the Commission on Presidential Scholars will review the applications and select 161 outstanding students to receive the nation’s highest scholastic honor.

To learn more about the Presidential Scholars Program at American Heritage, visit www.ahschool. com/presidential-scholars-2023.

The 23 Presidential Scholar nominees from American Heritage Schools.

Westlake Led County In Single-Family Home Building Activity In 2022

The City of Westlake again led the way during 2022 in permits issued for single-family home construction in Palm Beach County. New figures released by the county’s planning department show that Westlake was issued 651 single-family home building permits in 2022, ahead of Palm Beach Gardens with 245 permits. Westlake also topped all municipalities in 2021 with 829 single-family home permits. In 2022, 3,170 single-home permits were issued in the 39 municipalities and unincorporated Palm Beach County, down about 1,500 year-over-year. The figures were compiled from U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits.

“Even though there was less home building overall in Palm Beach County, Westlake was still the most desirable area for new single-family construction,” said Mike Belmont, president of Minto Communities USA. “I think it shows the continued demand to live in a new community like Westlake that offers a family-friendly lifestyle and quality construction at a good value.”

The total value of Westlake’s approved single-family home permits is estimated at $163.45 million, second highest among municipalities behind Boca Raton. Westlake placed second in the county in the total number of permits behind West Palm Beach,

which is undergoing a boom in multifamily housing.

Minto Communities is the master developer and primary home builder in the 3,800-acre Westlake, which was incorporated in 2016 and approved for 4,500 homes.

In 2022, 550 buyers purchased homes in Westlake. Since opening in October 2017, the City of Westlake has issued 1,832 certificates of occupancy for completed homes in Westlake.

Currently, Minto is selling single-family homes in The Orchards, larger estate homes in The Estates, and townhomes in The Crossings. Prices start in the $400s.

Phase 2 of the Westlake Adventure Park is expected to be complet-

Fifty Employers To Recruit At March 22 Palm Beach State College Career Fair

While more employers are hiring, they are still struggling to find quality candidates. On Wednesday, March 22, local job seekers will have the opportunity to impress 50 hiring employers at the Palm Beach State College Spring 2023 Career Fair from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Elisabeth W. Erling Gymnasium on the Lake Worth campus at 4200 Congress Ave. Free and open to the public, the career fair is co-sponsored by Palm Beach State College and CareerSource Palm Beach County. Pre-registration at http:// cspbcapps.careersourcepbc.com/ registration/jobfairs is advised to speed entry.

Private and public sector employers from a wide range of industries will be recruiting for current full-time and part-time openings, ranging from entry-level to managerial. Attendees will be able to meet hiring managers from organizations such as Amazon, Scripps/UF Jupiter, the South Florida Water Management District, Walgreens, the School District of Palm Beach County, Fastenal Company, SBA Communications, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Health Care District of Palm Beach County, Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, ChildCare Careers, En-

terprise Holdings and Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place.

“We’ve been hearing from a lot of local employers that they are having a hard time finding good people, so we are happy that Palm Beach State and CareerSource Palm Beach County can provide a venue to connect with quality job seekers,” said David Jenks, manager of the Palm Beach State College Career Center. Job seekers should bring copies of their résumé and be prepared to meet with prospective employers. For any questions about the career fair, e-mail careercenter@ palmbeachstate.edu.

United Way Launches 20th Year Free Tax Filing Help

The United Way of Palm Beach County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program has begun its 20th year of service, offering free income tax preparation throughout Palm Beach County to those with a 2022 household income of $70,000 or less. This program provides taxpayers with fast refunds by filing electronically through a secure IRS-certified program, so they can receive their hard-earned money quickly and save hundreds of dollars on filing fees.

Last year, the VITA Program helped Palm Beach County taxpayers save more than $1.4 million in fees had they used a tax-preparation service.

In 2022, VITA volunteers processed more than 7,300 income

tax returns for lower-income households resulting in upward of $3.8 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC), $3.1 million in Child Tax Credits (CTC) and $12.5 million in tax refunds. Since 2003, this program has returned approximately $267 million to the Palm Beach County economy by preparing returns for individuals and families in the community. The program is offering the following convenient filing options this year: Filed for You, offering in-person tax preparation provided at several countywide sites, and Filed Yourself at MyFreeTaxes. com. When visiting a VITA site, taxpayers need to bring the following documents: 2021 tax return; Social Security cards and birthdates for

all family members; all W2 statements for 2022; forms 1095-A, 1099, and 1098; a photo ID; and a voided check.

Joint returns require both spouses to attend. Those who earned less than $60,000 may also be eligible for up to $6,935 in Earned Income Tax Credits.

This program is possible through United Way of Palm Beach County’s partnership with the Internal Revenue Service, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, Bank of America, Third Federal and Wells Fargo.

To learn more about the VITA program and find the nearest VITA location, visit www.taxesfiledfree. org or call 211.

ed in the first quarter of this year. It will feature new basketball courts, an adult lap pool, a multi-purpose building and an event lawn, in addition to numerous amenities already open to residents.

Commercial development is also in high gear. Konover South recently broke ground on a 23,000-square-foot retail/restaurant known as the Shoppes of Westlake Landings. It is expected to open in late fall. Within the next two months, the new Publix at Westlake Plaza is expected to open with a 50,000-square-foot Publix grocery store and eight other stores. Two large-scale warehouse-distribution facilities have been approved and are awaiting construction. Over the past year and a half, two 7-Eleven stores opened, along with a regional service center for the Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Office. Westlake is located at 16610

Town Center Parkway North in the City of Westlake off Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. For more

information on the community, call (888) 299-3628 or visit www. westlakefl.com.

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Appoints Woodruff As New ACNO

Josh Woodruff has been named as the new assistant chief nursing officer (ACNO) at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, effective March 1.

Woodruff comes to Palms West Hospital after serving as the ACNO for HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, a 447-bed acute care facility in Miami-Dade County, where he also served as the interim director of the surgical and orthopedic floors. While at Kendall Hospital, Woodruff was responsible for the 71-bed medical unit, opened two new medical/surgical floors, and helped the hospital realize an increase in patient experience

scores. Woodruff has been with HCA Healthcare since April 2020.

Before that, Woodruff spent five years as a nursing director at Venice Regional Bayfront Health in Venice, Florida, from 2015 to 2020.

Prior to moving to Florida, Woodruff was an RN with the bariatric program at the Ohio State University and an assistant director of nursing for a care and rehabilitation facility in Ohio. He earned his LPN and RN from the Hondros School of Nursing, his BSN from Western Governors University and his MSN from Western Governors University.

Wellington Barn Tour Returns March 25

The Wellington Barn Tour will return on Saturday, March 25. Attendees will tour four incredible barns.

What is on my most equestrians’ wish list for their barn is standard for these barns — multiple tack rooms, feed rooms, veterinarian facilities, treadmills, offices, hot walkers, Theraplates, fly spray systems, kitchens, offices, laundry rooms, owners’ lounge, farriers’ shed, wash racks, grooms’ quarters, quarantine barns, jumping fields, tracks, arenas, maintenance build-

ings, generators and much more. Barns for 2023 include Diamante Farms, IDA Farm, Helgstrand Dressage and Mida Farms. Attendees will board the buses at the National Polo Center, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. Parking is in the pavilion area.

Wellington Barn Tour tickets are available by calling Polo America at (760) 668-6093. Tour times are 8, 8:30, 10:30 and 11 a.m. Attendees will ride in luxury buses from barn to barn and get a behind-the-scenes tour of

these multi-million-dollar barns. Refreshments will be available at one or more barns. Tickets are $75 per person and include a ticket for a polo match at Grand Champions Polo Club at 3 p.m. on March 25. The tour is a benefit for the Semper Fi and America’s Fund, one of the nation’s highest-rated charities. They are dedicated to providing urgently needed resources and support for combat wounded, critically ill and catastrophically injured members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

An aerial photo of home building in Westlake taken in January 2023.

Josh Woodruff

In Debbie’s World, We’d All Learn To Make A Few Simple Changes

When I first moved to the western area of Palm Beach County in the early 1980s — to Loxahatchee, to be exact — there were two popular bumper stickers. One was, “Loxahatchee: Love It and Leave It Alone” and the other was, “We Don’t Care How You Did It Up North.”

As a young person, I couldn’t understand A) why a community wouldn’t want to at least try to improve itself, even if those “improvements” were figuring out how to regulate the preservation of all its best parts; and B) the logic of refusing to at least study how things were done up north (or “out west” or “back east”), in case those areas of our coun-

Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

try had figured out problems that we in South Florida were now grappling with. It seemed short-sighted. It seemed like re-inventing the wheel, a waste of time. Now that I’m older, I’d like to say that I’m wiser, and my viewpoint has

changed, but the truth is, I still have problems with A and B and, in fact, have expanded my perplexity to include C) the entire world. So, in what my husband calls “Debbie’s World,” not only would communities not A) leave things alone and B) study how things were done elsewhere, but they would C) look beyond America’s borders to other countries.

That done, I would immediately have everyone start crossing their zeroes and sevens and zees like they do in Europe (like this: 0, 7, Z). I can’t be the only one who occasionally cannot tell a handwritten letter O from the number 0, a 7 from a 1 or a Z from a 2.

And please (this is for the code-senders) — please, I beg of you, quit using L as a number. No matter how important it is that I transfer the time sensitive security code you’ve texted me from my phone to my computer, I simply cannot distinguish your small L from your number one. Case in point: 11ll111l1l11l. OK, you tell me, which characters are which? In Debbie’s World, computers would simply refuse to acknowledge these characters, particularly when used in passcodes. I heard recently that the people who do studies finally completed a long-term study in which they ascertained that the people of Finland are the happiest

people on earth. In South Florida, we cannot conceive of this. Why? How? Not Possible! It’s cold in Finland.

But I have my own perspective — it all boils down to being able to tell a small L from a 1. Every day. Consistently. Without having to try it several ways before they can log into their bank statements... or whatever.

And, because I would prefer that the citizens of the United States be the happiest people on earth, I’ve put a deadline on this: all of us need to get on board with the 0-7-Z thing by Jan. 1, 2024. I would also like us to convert to the metric system, but let’s not get crazy.

NBC’s ‘Night Court’ Reboot A More Modern Spin, But Still Funny

In television and movies, the saying continues: everything old is new again. Since our brilliant culture warriors seem not to be able to create much that is new, interesting and fun, they are turning back to some of the successes of the past to entice us. It sometimes works. I watched the new Night Court TV show on NBC because it was on at a time little else interesting was and because I always liked Melissa Rauch from The Big Bang Theory, and she stars in this new version of a show from the 1980s. Remembering the old Night Court was fun. It was slightly reality-based because there was a court doing the same things in New York City, even if reality was not all that funny. We had Judge Harry Stone (the late Harry Anderson), laid back and eternally optimistic; cranky, horny prosecutor Dan Fielding (John Larroquette); perky public defender Christine Sullivan (the late Markie Post) with a few other nuts and dolts. The real fun came from the zany

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

folk who came up for trial. I actually saw an old YouTube video with Brent Spiner as a man arrested for “blowing up chickens.” It was the 1980s, and by our current standards, many of the scantily dressed hookers, insane (but funny) homeless people and other creations are almost certainly forbidden. That may be why there are not nearly as many good comedies on television any more.

In the new update, Judge Abby Stone (Rauch) comes from upstate New York to take over the judge’s job as a way of reconnecting with her late father. She is

in for more than a bit of culture shock. Prosecutor Olivia (India de Beaufort) is not only a by-the-book kind of person, but goes out of her way to protect the police.

Abby’s aide Neil (Kapil Talwalker) seems knowledgeable but also naïve and a bit out of place, and the bailiff Gurgs (Lacretta) gets a lot of the laugh lines. But the public defender on the first show was so pathetic that Abby goes looking for Dan Fielding (still John Larroquette), her father’s old prosecutor who now serves subpoenas instead of practicing law, to come back and defend those before her.

The relationship between Abby and Dan seems the heart of the show in its first episodes. No show could get away with Fielding’s old antics anymore; his behavior in the first run of the show was outrageous, albeit funny. So now he’s the wise old guy, still fast with a joke, but more grounded. This allows de Beaufort to handle more of the outrageous parts, and she does it well.

This is still a new show, but it is beginning to shape up decently. Rauch is a quite different character from Anderson. She is far less laid back, actually closer in some ways to the old show’s public defender. But Rauch is an expert comedy actor. She knows how to use phrasing, pauses, strange looks, to not only get laughs but to get the audience to both like and root for her.

De Beaufort handles her job really well. While often seeming like the self-righteous foil for others, she has already shown she can let go and do great low comedy. Talwalker was a bit too quiet in the first episodes but has started to come into his own. He has a tricky part in comedy; a quiet person who should not always be the straight man. But he, after a couple of episodes, has become stronger. Lacretta fills in admirably as the wise guy, riffing on the role as bailiff previously held by Selma Diamond, Richard Moll and Marsha Whitfield.

But it is Larroquette who seems to dominate. He is a superb comic actor, as we have all seen in several great shows, and in his new, more mentoring role, he manages to get through to the others and get plenty of laughs.

The show is not yet as funny as the old one. We have had decades to learn to feel sorry for the homeless, even when their craziness is funny. We have become sensitive people, and almost by definition this court show becomes an accusatory work. People get in trouble and, since we’re not going to get laughs out of serious crimes, we wind up dealing with those folk who just seem to not be able to stay out of trouble.

On the other hand, I actually laughed more than a few times during the course of each half hour show.

That does not happen often with what we are getting from our overpaid cultural geniuses. You should try it. You might just like it.

Deborah

everyone to see! Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something special. Call 561-795-9999 to buy your sign today!